HONOR OUR FLAG

In the Armed Forces of the United States, at the Ceremony of Retreat, 
the flag is lowered, folded in a triangle fold, and kept under watch throughout the 
night as a tribute to our nation's honored dead. The next morning it is brought out, 
and at the Ceremony of Reveille, run aloft as a symbol of our belief in new life.
The portion of the flag denoting honor is the canton field of blue containing the stars,
representing the states who have provided the men and women who have served in uniform.
The canton field of blue dresses from left to right and is inverted only when 
draped as a pall on a casket of a veteran who has served 
our country honorably in uniform.

1. The first fold of our flag is a symbol of our belief in God.

2. The second fold is a symbol of our devotion to the United States of America.

3. The third fold is made in honor and remembrance of the Veterans who 
have departed our ranks.

4. The fourth fold represents our reliance on God for guidance and strength.

5. The fifth fold is a tribute to freedom and all that it means to us.

6. The sixth fold represents our heart.
 For it is with our heart that we pledge allegiance to the flag of the 
United States of  America.

7. The seventh fold is a tribute to our Armed Forces, for it is the Armed Forces 
who protect our country and our flag  against all her enemies.

8. The eighth fold is a tribute to honor our Mother's faith, love, loyalty, and 
devotion that have shaped the character of the men and women who have made
 this country great.

9. The ninth fold is a tribute to Father's, who give their sons and daughters
 for the defense of our country.

10. The tenth fold is a tribute to American families everywhere.
 Our strength is built upon their strength.

11. The eleventh fold is a symbol of our belief in justice and equality for all.

12. The twelfth fold represents an emblem of eternity, and glorifies our faith in God.

13. The thirteenth fold is a symbol of our thirteen original colonies.

When the flag is completely folded, the stars are uppermost, reminding us 
of our national 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 American Soldiers who first served under
General George Washington to establish and preserve the rights, privileges, and
 freedoms we enjoy today.