The Meaning Behind Each of the 13-Folds of the American Flag
- Last Updated: April 24th, 2025
The Meaning Behind Each of the 13-Folds of the American Flag
The flag-folding ceremony represents the same religious principles on which our great country was originally founded.
The first fold is a symbol of life.
The second fold is for our belief in eternal life.
The third fold is made in honor and remembrance of the veteran departing rank, who gave a portion of his or her life for the defense of our country to attain peace throughout the world.
The fourth fold stands for our weaker nature.
The fifth fold is a tribute to America.
The sixth fold is where our heart lies.
The seventh fold is a tribute to our armed forces.
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 our mother, for whom it flies on Mother’s Day.
The ninth fold is a tribute to womanhood, for it is through their faith, love, loyalty and devotion that the character of the men and women who have made this country great have been molded.
The tenth fold is a tribute to father, for he has given his sons and daughters for the defense of our country since he or she was first born.
The eleventh fold, in the eyes of Hebrew citizens, 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 Ghost.
When the flag is completely folded, which some consider the 13th fold; the stars are uppermost, reminding us of our national motto, “In God We Trust.“
After the flag is completely folded and tucked in, it has the appearance of a cocked hat, reminding us of the soldiers who served under General George Washington and the sailors, the Marines who served under Captain John Paul Jones, and followed by their comrades and shipmates in the U.S. Armed Forces.
Together preserving for us the rights, privileges and freedoms we all enjoy today.
The date and source of origin of this flag folding procedure is unknown.
According to some sources, it was the Gold Star Mothers of America while others believe it originated from an Air Force chaplain stationed at the United States Air Force Academy.
Regardless of its source of origin, it is provided as a patriotic service to all.
Source https://www.legion.org/flag/folding
About the Author: Frank Piscitelli
As a first-generation Italian in the United States, Frank is no stranger to tough times.
His father’s family moved to Cleveland from Italy on May 22, 1958, with a few articles of clothing, some personal items and very little money.
His family shared a home with three other related families but happily worked long hours doing jobs that involved physical labor, just to put food on the table.
There was the promise of hope and opportunity, which was missing before his family moved here.
Member of the Ohio State Bar Association since 1993. With 30+ years of legal experience, Attorney Frank Piscitelli has secured over $55 million in compensation for Ohio injury victims, car accident victims, and surviving family members of Ohio wrongful death victims.
Legally Reviewed
This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy and clarity by the team of writers and attorneys at Piscitelli Law Firm and is as accurate as possible. This content should not be taken as legal advice from an attorney. If you would like to learn more about our owner and experienced Ohio personal injury lawyer, Frank Piscitelli, you can do so here.
Fact-Checked
Piscitelli Law Firm does everything possible to make sure the information in this article is up to date and accurate. If you need specific legal advice about your case, contact us. This article should not be taken as advice from an attorney.
Additional Resources
A serious injury can have life-altering results.
Don’t settle for less than you deserve, speak with an award-winning personal injury lawyer today.
Table of Contents
For 30 years, Frank Piscitelli has been fighting for clients who have been the victims of the wrongful death of a loved one.
Do you believe you’re entitled to compensation?
Use our Instant Case Evaluator to find out in as little as 60 seconds!
A serious injury can have life-altering results.
Don’t settle for less than you deserve, speak with an award-winning personal injury lawyer today.
