How To Properly Fold The American Flag For A Display Case
While it is unclear how the tradition started, there is a proper way we follow on how to fold the U.S. Flag. In which to fold and display the U.S. flag. The process involves 13 folds representing the 13 original U.S. colonies, and each fold has its own meaning.
These are as follows:
- A symbol of life
- Belief in eternal life
- Remembrance of departed veterans
- Human weakness and the need for divine guidance
- Acknowledging our country
- Recognizing that our hearts lie with the republic
- A tribute to the armed forces
- Honoring the dead and mothers
- Honoring womanhood
- Honoring fathers
- Honoring the Jewish God
- Honoring the Christian God
- The national motto, “In God We Trust”
Whether you need to fold a historic U.S. flag or a current iteration of the star-spangled banner, the process requires a specific series of folds.
How to Fold the U.S. Flag in Horizontal Folds
The initial two folds are horizontal and can most easily be accomplished by two people holding the flag upright. First, fold the two bottom corners up to meet their respective top corners (left to left, right to right).
Repeat the same motion, bringing the lower, folded crease up to meet the open edge of the flag. The result should be that the lower portion of the stars is facing forward on the left-hand side while the stripes extend to the right.
How to Fold the U.S. Flag in Triangular Folds
The next step involves the remaining 11 folds, which are all triangular. Start by bringing the lower right corner up to meet the open edge at the top of the flag, resulting in a triangle shape. From there, fold the outer point on the upper right inward over the existing triangle.
Next, fold the right upper corner down to meet the creased lower edge of the flag, followed by the right lower corner folded across to the left over the triangle. Repeat this series of motions until only one finished triangular shape remains.
Display Your Flag With Pride
The best way to display your flag is in a triangular case with the final fold facing forward, with one point up and two points down. The smallest number of stars should be at the top like a pyramid.
No matter how and where you plan to display your U.S. flag, you can find the perfect option at Elmer’s Flag. Contact us today with any questions or to place an order.