When the American flag is properly folded it becomes a triangle, folded 13 times. But most people don't know that each fold has a specific meaning. June 14th is Flag Day when the Stars and Stripes was adopted by the Continental Congress as the nation's flag. So here is the meaning of the 13 folds.
The First Fold is a symbol for Life;
The Second Fold is a symbol of our belief in eternal life;
The Third is made in honor and remembeance 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 represents our weaker nature, for as American citizens trusting, it is to Him we turn in times of peace as well as in time of war for His Divine guidance;
The Fifth 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 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 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 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 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 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 11th is 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 12th, in the eyes of a Christian citizen represents an emblem of eternity and glorifies, in their eyes, God the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit;
The 13th has the flag completely folded, the stars are uppermost reminding us of our nation's motto: "In God We Trust," and after the flag is completely folded it reminds us of the tri-corn hat that was the symbol of our Founding Fathers and of this great nation.