In the coming weeks, we will visit through TV and news reports the 
funerals of many people.  In those clips, we will see the folding of our
flag 
over the caskets of many victims of last week.  When you see this, I want
you 
to remember something very special.  Those whose bodies are laid to earthly 
rest will be honored by a tradition of folding the American Flag.  This 
is not just a nice gesture, but has great meaning from our history-a 
history which even terror cannot overcome.  And so, as you get the lumps in
your 
throats, tears in your eyes, and struggle with bitterness, anger, and 
frustration, here is something to remember how special these people 
were: 

WHY THE AMERICAN FLAG IS FOLDED 13 TIMES 
Have you ever noticed on TV or at military funerals that the honor guard 
pays meticulous attention to correctly folding the American flag 13 
times? 
I've known how the 21 gun salute was determined (adding the individual 
digits of 1776), but only recently learned why the flag was folded 13 
times when it is lowered or when it is folded and handed to the widow at the

burial of a veteran. Here it is: 

The first fold of our flag is a symbol of life. 

The second fold is a symbol of our belief in eternal life. 

The third fold is made in honor and remembrance of the veterans 
departing our ranks who gave a portion of their lives for the defense of our

country to attain peace throughout the world. 

The 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. 

The 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." 

The 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. 

The 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 be found within or without the boundaries of our 
republic. 

The 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. 

The 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. 

The 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. 

The 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. 

The 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". 

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 us 
the rights, privileges, and freedoms we enjoy today.  There are some 
traditions and ways of doing things which have deep meaning.  You will see
many 
flags folded in the coming weeks, and now you will know why.