By Terry Orr
(Another wonderful email to share)
What a wonderful lesson this was for me. I do not recall
ever being taught this in school. The Meaning of the Flag-Draped Coffin"
All Americans should be given this lesson. Those who think that America is an
arrogant nation should really reconsider that thought. Our founding fathers
used GOD's word and teachings to establish our Great Nation and I think it's
high time Americans get re-educated about this Nation's history. Pass it along
and be proud of the country we live in, and even more proud of those who serve
to protect our 'GOD-GIVEN' rights and freedoms. I hope you take the time to
read this ... To understand what the flag draped coffin really means ... Here
is how to understand the flag that laid upon it and is surrendered to so many
widows and widowers:
Do you know that at military funerals, the 21-gun salute
stands for the sum of the numbers in the year 1776?
Have you ever
noticed that the honor guard pays meticulous attention to correctly folding the
United States of America Flag 13 times? You probably thought it was to
symbolize the original 13 colonies, but we learn something new every day!
The 1st fold of the flag is a symbol of life.
The 2nd fold is a symbol of the belief in eternal life.
The 3rd fold is made in honor and remembrance of the
veterans departing the ranks who gave a portion of their lives for the defense
of the country to attain peace throughout the world.
The 4th fold represents the 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 the 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 people's hearts lie. It is with
their heart that they 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 its Armed Forces, for it is
through the Armed Forces that they protect their country and their flag against
all her enemies, whether they be found within or without the boundaries of
their 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 their 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 are uppermost reminding them of their Nations motto, 'In God We Trust.'
After the flag is completely folded and tucked in, it
takes on the appearance of a cocked hat, ever reminding us of the soldiers who
served under General George Washington, and the Sailors and Marines who served
under Captain John Paul Jones, who were followed by their comrades and
shipmates in the Armed Forces of the United States, preserving for them the
rights, privileges and freedoms they enjoy today.
There are some traditions and ways of doing things that
have deep meaning. In the future, you'll see flags folded and now you will know
why.
Share this with the children you love and all others who
love what is referred to as the symbol of ' Liberty and Freedom.'
MAYBE THE SUPREME COURT SHOULD READ THIS
EXPLANATION BEFORE THEY RENDER THEIR DECISION ON THE PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE.
FORWARD IT; MAYBE SOMEONE WITH THE NECESSARY POWER, OR POLITICAL AND FINANCIAL
INFLUENCE, WILL GET IT TO THEM.IN THE MEANTIME, MAY GOD PROTECT US ALWAYS.ONE
NATION, UNDER GOD, WITH LIBERTY AND JUSTICE FOR ALL.
If you agree, Pass it along to others
If not, hit delete
Our Soldiers have preserved your right to make this
choice!
