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You will never forget a visit to Arlington National Cemetery near Washington, D.C. As far as the eye can see, thousands upon thousands of graves silently shout the high cost of freedom. The words of John 15:13 come to mind, “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.”

During one of our visits there, my husband and I saw the unforgettable sight of a flag-draped coffin on a caisson, a horse drawn cart. The caisson was pulled by six horses, but there are only three riders – soldiers from the Army’s Third Infantry Regiment.

Most of us have witnessed a burial and watched soldiers fold an American flag once draped over the coffin of someone, whether retired or active duty, who has served our country in the U.S. military. According to the American Legion website, the flag-folding ceremony represents the same religious principles on which our country was founded.

“The first fold of our flag is a symbol of life. The second fold is a symbol of our belief in eternal life. The third fold is made in honor and remembrance of the veteran departing our ranks, and who gave a portion of his or her life for the defense of our country to attain peace throughout the world.

“The fourth fold represents our weaker nature; 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 fold is a tribute to our country, remembering the words of Stephen Decatur, ‘Our country, in dealing with other countries, may she always be right…’ The sixth fold 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 fold is a tribute to our armed forces, for it is through the Armed Forces that we protect our country and our flag against all enemies, whether they be found within or without the boundaries of our republic. 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 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.

“The source and the date of origin of this Flag Folding Procedure is unknown, however some sources attribute it to the Gold Star Mothers of America while others to an Air Force chaplain stationed at the United States Air Force Academy. Others consider it to be an urban legend. It is provided as a patriotic service to all.”

Whether the meaning of the folds has official acceptance, or is just folklore, the folding of an American flag to be presented to the deceased’s family member represents the thanks of a grateful nation.

— Jan White has compiled a collection of her columns in her book, “Everyday Faith for Daily Life.”