We have all witnessed the retiring of the American standard in the afternoon. An event that is executed at sunset on every US Military instillation worldwide, the ensign is lowered slowly, all present will either render a hand salute smartly, with the right hand,if in military uniform; or place the right hand over the heart when wearing civilian attire; this procedure is executed in respect to all those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice in the defense of our nation to preserve and protect the union. Once the colors are in complete control of the senior noncommissioned officer in charge of the color guard, the salute is dropped quick and smartly.
Now the national ensign is moved from the parade field, to a designated area to be folded four times at length and then folded in the shape of a triangle thirteen times. Each of these thirteen folds has a specific symbolic meaning.
Fold One: The symbol for life.
Second Fold: The symbol of our belief in eternal life.
Third Fold: is made in hour and remembrance of the veterans departing our ranks who gave a portion of their lives for the defence of our country to attain peace throughout the world.
Fourth 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.
Fifth 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."
Sixth 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 to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.
Seventh 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 are found within our without the boundaries of our republic.
Eighth 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, and to honor mother, for whom it flies on Mother's day
Ninth Fold: is a tribute to womanhood; 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.
Tenth 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.
Eleventh Fold: in the eyes of a Hebrew citizen, represents the lower portion of the seal of king David and King Solomon, and glorifies in their eyes, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
Twelfth Fold: in the eyes of a Christian citizen, represents an emblem of eternity and glorifies, in their eyes, God the Father, the Son, and Holy Spirit.
When the flag is completely folded, the stars are uppermost, reminding us of our nation's motto, "In God we Trust." and resemble a new constellation present in the cosmos. After the flag is completely folded and tucked in, it takes the appearance of a cocked hat, ever reminding us of the soldiers who had served under General George Washington, and the sailors and marines who had served under Captain John Paul Jones, who were followed by their comrades and shipmates in the armed forces of the United States, preserving for us the rights, privileges, and freedoms we enjoy today.
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