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From
The Secretary's Table
I
read an article recently about the Flag we are all so proud to
call our own, and would like to share some of it with you!
Have you ever
noticed that the honor guard pays meticulous attention to
correctly fold the American flag 13 times? You probably
thought it was to symbolize the original 13 Colonies, but read
on, we learn something new every day!
The
1st fold
of our flag is a symbol of life.
The 2nd
fold is a symbol of our belief in eternal life.
The 3rd
fold is made in honor and remembrance of the veterans
departing our ranks who gave a portion of their lives for the
defense of our country to attain peace throughout the world.
The 4th
fold represents our weaker nature, for as American
citizens trusting in God, it is to him we turn in times of
peace as well as in time of war for his divine guidance.
The 5th
fold is a tribute to our country, for in the words of
Stephen Decatur, “Our Country, in dealing with other
countries, may she always be right; but it is still our
country, right or wrong.
The 6th
fold is for where our hearts lie. It is with our heart
that we pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States Of
America, and the Republic for which it stands, one Nation
under God, indivisible, with Liberty and Justice for all.
The 7th
fold is a tribute to our Armed Forces, for it is through
the Armed Forces that we protect our country and our flag
against all her enemies, whether they be found within or
without the boundaries of our Republic.
The 8th
fold is a tribute to the one who entered into the valley
of the shadow of death, that we might see the light of day.
The 9th
fold is a tribute to womanhood, and mothers. For it has
been through their faith, their love, loyalty and devotion
that the character of the men and women who have made this
country great has been molded.
The 10th
fold is a tribute to the father, for he, too, has given
his sons and daughters for the defense of our country since
they were first born.
The 11th
fold represents the lower portion of the seal of King
David and King Solomon and glorifies in the Hebrews eyes, the
God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.
The 12th fold represents an emblem of eternity and
glorifies, in the Christians eyes, God the Father, the Son and
Holy Spirit.
The 13th
fold or when the flag is completely folded the stars uppermost
reminding us of our nation’s motto, “In God We Trust.”
Fraternally,
Thomas B. Reoch, PM
Secretary
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