Can one person fold an American flag?

To begin, with one person at either end, hold the flag waist high so that's its surface is parallel to the ground. Fold the lower half of the stripe section lengthwise over the field of stars, holding the bottom and top edges securely. Fold the flag again lengthwise, now with the blue field on the outside.

How many people should fold the flag?

Two or more people are needed to fold a flag so that tension is applied throughout the entire folding procedure. Remember not to let the flag touch the ground at any point during the folding process. Fold evenly in half lengthwise by folding the left half over the top to meet the right half.

Is it okay to fold a flag?

(A) Straighten out the flag to full length and fold lengthwise once. (B) Fold it lengthwise a second time to meet the open edge, making sure that the union of stars on the blue field remains outward in full view. (A large flag may have to be folded lengthwise a third time.)

What does a folded flag mean?

Here is what each fold of the flag means: The first fold symbolizes life. The second fold represents a belief in eternal life. The third fold is made in honor and remembrance of the veterans who gave their lives in defense of the country in order to help attain peace throughout the world.

Is it disrespectful to unfold a flag?

The official flag code does not make mention of the issue; some hold that once a flag is folded it should remain folded, while others have concluded that it is a noble and patriotic way to honor the life of the military service member.

How To: Fold An American Flag

Why can't red show on a folded flag?

The folded flag is emblematic of the tri-cornered hat worn by the Patriots of the American Revolution. When folded, no red or white stripe is to be evident, leaving only the blue field with stars. It is then presented as a keepsake to the next of kin or an appropriate family member.

Why do you fold the flag 13 times?

If you've ever attended a military funeral, perhaps you noticed that the honor guards pay meticulous attention to folding the U.S. flag that once draped the casket. Guards make crisp, precise folds a total of 13 times to complete the ceremony.

Who is entitled to a flag draped coffin?

Can his coffin be wrapped in a flag? It is appropriate for any patriotic person to make and be granted the same honor as military to have a flag drape the coffin. Only those who served in the military, however, are provided the flag for free.

How do you display a folded flag?

The one and only correct way to fold an American flag will leave it in a triangle form that shows only the "union," the blue field with white stars. The folded flag must be displayed in a case, box, or bag of that shape.

What is Step 1 in folding the flag?

Step 1: A team of two people hold opposite ends of the Flag. Stretch it horizontally at waist height and fold it in half lengthwise with the stripes facing up and the blue field facing down. The Flag should now be half of its original width.

What do you say when you present the flag at a funeral?

Lean toward the flag recipient and solemnly present the flag to the recipient. “On behalf of the President of the United States, the United States Coast Guard, and a grateful Nation, please accept this flag as a symbol of our appreciation for your loved one's honorable and faithful service.”

Do you have to shine a light on the American flag at night?

The Flag Code states it is the universal custom to display the flag only from sunrise to sunset on buildings and on stationary flag staffs in the open. However, when a patriotic effect is desired, the flag may be displayed 24 hours a day if properly illuminated during the hours of darkness.

Does the military kneel when presenting a flag?

Kneel, on one knee, in front of the flag recipient and solemnly present the flag to the recipient. Present the flag using the veteran's military service preferred wording: Army ...

What does third fold mean?

1 : having three parts or members : triple a threefold purpose. 2 : being three times as great or as many a threefold increase.

Why is the American flag folded into a triangle at funerals?

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

When a veteran dies Who gets the flag?

2. Who Is Eligible to Receive the Burial Flag? Generally, the flag is given to the next-of-kin, as a keepsake, after its use during the funeral service. When there is no next-of-kin, VA will furnish the flag to a friend making request for it.

Why would you fly a flag at half staff?

Flying a flag at half-staff or half-mast is a sign for grief and mourning. It is flown following the death of certain government officials, in times of national distress, on various holidays, and at any other time it is instructed by the president or government.

What are 3 things one should never do out of respect to the flag?

Is it disrespectful to fly a flag on a truck?

Decals and fabric flags (flown) are acceptable; however, draping a real flag flat over the hood, trunk, or truck bed is considered disrespectful to the flag. Q: Is it OK to fly a flag on a truck? A: As long as it doesn't interfere with the driver's field of view or obstruct the vehicle operation in any other way.

What do I do with a ripped American flag?

According to the U.S. Flag Code, “The flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning”.

Can you have a military funeral if you are cremated?

Funeral and Memorial Services for Veterans

Veterans can receive cremation and burial benefits if eligible. According to the US Department of Veterans Affairs, a veteran's family may bury or inter their loved one's ashes at any National Cemetery that accepts cremains.

What does a properly folded American flag look like?

When the flag is completely folded, only a triangular blue field of stars should be visible. If a hem protrudes beyond the blue field, it should be neatly tucked inside the folds of the flag so that it does not show. The folded flag is then presented to the next of kin.