This year, we celebrate Memorial Day on May 25th. Many of us may not truly understand the meaning behind this holiday, often seeing it as just a 3-day weekend. Let’s explore the real reason we observe this day.
Memorial Day honors the men and women who lost their lives while serving in the military, especially those who fell in battle or died from injuries sustained in combat. It’s a day dedicated to remembering the veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
What is the Meaning of the Flag-Draped Coffin?
This was such a meaningful lesson for me, and I don’t remember ever learning it in school. An internet friend shared “The Meaning of the Flag-Draped Coffin” with me, and I believe every American should know it. Those who see America as arrogant might want to think again. Our founding fathers built this great nation on God’s word and teachings, and it’s about time we all got a refresher on our history.
Share this with others and take pride in the country we call home, and even more in those who serve to protect our God-Given rights and freedoms. Take a moment to read this and understand the true meaning behind a flag-draped coffin.
The Meaning of the Flag-Draped Coffin.
Let’s take a closer look at the folding of the flag placed on a veteran’s casket and later presented to their widow or widower at the burial. Have you noticed how the honor guard takes great care in folding the United States flag exactly 13 times? Many assume it represents the original 13 colonies, but there’s more to it than that!
The 1st fold of the flag is a symbol of life.
The 2nd fold is a symbol of the belief in God and 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 God 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 our country and our 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 us of our Nations motto, ‘In God We Trust.’
Once the flag is fully folded and tucked, it resembles a cocked hat, serving as a reminder of the soldiers who served under General George Washington, and the sailors and marines who served under Captain John Paul Jones. They were followed by their comrades and shipmates in the U.S. Armed Forces, all working to preserve the rights, privileges, and freedoms enjoyed today.
There are some traditions and ways of doing things that have deep meaning. In the future, when you see our flag folded, you will know the reasons why.
Please share this with your family, friends, and all others who love what is referred to as the symbol of ‘Liberty and Freedom.’
A few more traditions and their meanings. Do you know that at military funerals, the 21-gun salute stands for the sum of the numbers in the year 1776?
Thirty-one words which affirm the values and freedom that the American flag represents are recited while facing the flag as a pledge of Americans’ loyalty to their country. The Pledge of Allegiance was written for the 400th anniversary, in 1892, of the discovery of America. A national committee of educators and civic leaders planned a public-school celebration of Columbus Day to center around the flag. Included with the script for ceremonies that would culminate in raising of the flag was the pledge. So, it was in October 1892 Columbus Day programs that school children across the country first recited the Pledge of Allegiance.
The Pledge of Allegiance now reads: I 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.
May God Protect, Guide and lead this great nation. God Bless Bob.
Thank you for reading my blog. I’m not an expert or connected to any religious organization, but I am devoted to my Lord Jesus Christ. These are simply my personal opinions and observations, shared in the hope of sparking some thoughts for you to consider. I believe there’s one place to find all of life’s answers—the Bible. If you’re seeking guidance, just open it and read. If you’d like me to pray with you or share your thoughts, feel free to email me at Bob.L@magnificentpromises.com or use the form below.
For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in him shall not perish but have everlasting life. John 3:16
