A Foldable Paper Flag

Do You know how to properly fold the American Flag, and why we fold it the way we do? The flag folding ceremony of the U.S. military is something nearly everyone has seen before. But most do not know the meanings some branches of the military have ascribed to this ceremony.

The Providence Forum’s Foldable Flag was developed to be a unique educational tool that indicates not only how to fold the flag properly, but also to teach the meanings that have been assigned to each fold.

The Meaning Behind the Folds

Our Flag points us to the founding faith of our nation. The folded Flag also reminds us of our Founding Fathers as well. For, the triangle shape also resembles the cocked hat of the first General of the American Army, George Washington.

In fact, these meanings, (previously presented by the U.S. Air Force Academy website but sadly since deleted), reveal our nation’s Judeo-Christian heritage in a quite remarkable manner.

• The first fold is a symbol of life.
• The second is a symbol of our belief in the eternal life.
• The third is made in honor and remembrance of the veterans departing our ranks and who gave a portion of life for the defense of our country.
• 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 times of war for His divine guidance.
• The fifth is a tribute to our country, for in the words of Stephen Decatur, American Naval Captain, “Our Country, in dealing with other countries, may she always be right, but it is still our country, right or wrong.”
• The sixth is for our hearts where we pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America..
• The seventh is a tribute to our Armed forces, for it is through he Armed Forces that we protect our country and our flag against all enemies.
• 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 is has been 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, too, 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, the stars are uppermost, reminding us of our national motto, “In God We Trust.” Our Flag points us to the founding faith of our nation. The folded Flag also reminds us of our Founding Fathers as well. For, the triangle shape also resembles the cocked hat of the first General of the American Army, George Washington.

Want More?

Visit our store to purchase a unique educational tool that teaches you how to fold the American flag, and the meaning of each fold as described by the Air Force Academy. Learn the history and significance of each of the 12 folds as this paper flag is transformed into George Washington’s hat.  Shop Now »