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The Thirteen Folds

Military honors are performed every day

at the gravesites of our hero’s who have died.

Rifles fire to the sky, then is heard a buglers cry,

and our country’s flag is folded with much pride.

 

The flag that drapes a casket is handled with respect

as it’s folded by the Honor Guard assigned.

In case you don’t recall, there are thirteen folds in all

and the meaning of each one is here defined.

 

The FIRSTfold represents the symbol of all life.

The SECONDstands for life eternally.

The THIRD is made in honor of all veterans who have died

in the fight for the right to keep us free.

 

FOURreminds us of the weaker nature of mankind,

and our never ending need for God above.

We’ll turn to Him for guidance in times of peace and war.

May we ever be worthy of His love.

 

Fold FIVE is a tribute to the country we call home.

We will defend, and fight to keep it strong.

May we always be right, in the cause for which we fight;

But America’s our country, right or wrong..

 

SIX.A symbol of our hearts, for it is there we pledge,

allegiance to our flag as we stand tall.

A nation under God, and through Him indivisible,

with liberty and justice for us all.

 

The SEVENTHfor armed forces; Each and every branch,

who protect our country from the enemy.

On ocean, ground, or in the sky… victory will be our cry

and the stars and stripes will wave from sea to sea.

 

Fold E IGHT is a tribute to those who gave their all.

In the valley of death so far away.

The bravest of the brave, who now lie in their grave,

That we might ever see the light of day.

 

Fold NINEis for mothers, and for all of womanhood.

And for the love of our land they resonate.

With devotion, they have molded the character of men

and women who have made this country great.

 

TENis for all fathers, who have lost sons and daughters

and yet, with pride, hold their heads up high.

Freedom’s price to them is clearer. Our flag even dearer,

and it’s presence makes the strongest of them cry.

 

The ELEVENTHfold is for our right to worship as we please

in a land God has given you and me..

Fold TWELVE gives honor and all glory to our God,

and represents what is eternity.

 

In foldTHIRTEEN, the final fold,stars are uppermost.

That they face to the heavens is a must;

For it reminds us we’re a nation devoted to our God,

and founded by the words, “IN GOD WE TRUST”.

 

The piece of flag remaining is tucked in nice and tight,

and holds the thirteen folds in place for keeps.

Reminiscent of a mother, who as though for one last time

is tucking in her precious child who sleeps.

Watch The Thirteen Folds by Ron Tranmer

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