Our Father’s God to Thee, author of liberty, to Thee we sing. Long may our land be bright with freedom’s holy light; protect us by Thy might, great God our King.
Several years ago, Randy and I had the honor to attend the National Prayer Breakfast in Washington, DC as guests of Newt Gingrich. We sat with Madeleine Albright, and Hugh O’Brien, met Billly Graham and other dignitaries, but the highlight was visiting the Vietnam War Memorial Wall. We were in search of the names of friends who had given their lives for our country. As we found each name, we used paper to rub over the name and keep it. We gave the paper to the families. What a sobering experience.
I began to think about the flag of our country and the significance of the meticulous attention paid to it at a military funeral. I researched and learned a lot! For example, I never knew that the 21 gun salute used at military funerals is the sum of the numerals 1776! Also, when a soldier folds the flag at a funeral for the widow or widower it has 13 folds. My first thought was for the 13 original colonies, but that is far from correct.
The first fold is a symbol of life; the second fold is a symbol of the belief in eternal life. The third fold is in honor and remembrance of veterans; the fourth fold represents the weaker nature, we, as citizens have as we turn to God in times of peace or war for His divine guidance.
The fifth fold is a tribute to our country; the sixth is for where people’s hearts lie as they pledge allegiance to our country. The seventh fold is a tribute to Armed Forces while the eighth fold is a tribute to those who have died serving their country.
The ninth fold is a tribute to Mothers and motherhood, while the tenth fold is a tribute to Fathers. The eleventh fold glorifies the Hebrew God of Abraham, Issac, and Jacob.
The twelveth fold represents the Christian God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. The thirteenth and final fold shows the stars uppermost reminding us of our nation’s motto, In God We Trust.
I never knew how symbolic each precise fold is to the family and should be to us as Americans. I will never watch a military funeral again without being cognizant of the foundations upon which this country was built!
May God protect us always as one nation under God, with liberty and justice for all.
Thank you to all our veterans and service men here and abroad.
Beautiful!!!! I never knew these things. Thank you so much. My Hugh is a veteran, having served in Vietnam while we were married. Your remembrance and that of so many others means so much.
Carolyn
Thank you for sharing your research, and once again thank you for your inspiring words. What a kind thing to do at The Wall. 😢🇺🇸
Thanks Diane, we always enjoy your post. Thanks for sharing with us.
In God’s love, JoAnn & Ron
Diane, I always enjoy your stories. You have the ability to take us along with you.
Love to you, Randy and precious family