My dad just sent me this email that describes what the meaning is of the US flag being draped around a coffin. I thought this was very interesting and educational. My dad was in the military so this brings some extra meaning to all of this. I hope that this enlightens you as well.
Meaning of Flag Draped Coffin
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 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.
3 comments
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August 21, 2007 at 4:26 pm
Don McNally
Hi, Gayle. I hadn’t heard about all the meaning before. Interesting stuff (I found the same thing here, which also refers back to the USAF Academy site.
I think the 21-gun salute part is an urban legend, although it is a nice thought. That salute goes way back to prior to the existence of the U.S. See this, among other references for discussion.
Cool post though!
August 21, 2007 at 4:35 pm
gayleelgort
Don – Thanks for the links and additional information. The information that I received was from an email chain, so I cannot 100% verify if all the information is urban legend/myth or truth. Your additional information is very helpful and informative. Thanks for sharing!!
May 20, 2008 at 12:20 pm
Robert Green
The 21 Gun Salute is often confused with the 3 Gun Volley performed by 7 persons at a funeral. The 21 Gun Salute is just that, a salute given to high members of state. The 21 Gun Salute has been around before 1776. It actually was used in the UK and also has been in existence since the middle ages. There are also other numbered salutes as well. On the 4th of July the U.S. performs a 50 Gun Salute for all 50 states in the Union.
Cdr. Robert Green, USNR, Ret.