Nothing has ever so moved me throughout my life as the heroism and sacrifi ce of our “Greatest Generation.” As we celebrate those fallen on the fi elds of battle this Memorial Day, let us remember those heroes, and also let us acknowledge those of them who are still among us. We are blessed to know these Americans who saved the free world. They put their lives on the line and all entered the service of our nation at great risk, leaving behind parents who patiently waited and prayed for their safe return. My grandmother never threw out her single blue star that hung in her window, a bittersweet reminder of her only son’s departure halfway around the world. It is a symbol that endures and represents the strength of American motherhood even now in windows of homes in neighborhoods across America. When our troops came home, many had the physical and emotional scars of war, yet never complained about it. They left as boys and returned as men, forever changed by the experience. As the book and movie portrays, they gave the “best years of their lives” for the freedom of future generations. My regret is that so many have passed away before we expressed our gratitude. To those who remain, thank you from my generation. We will never, ever forget you.
I wouldn't be in the parade if I were EE. I'd be afraid that there would be people booing me. After all.....this is 'rotterdam the cesspool'!!
When the INSANE are running the ASYLUM In individuals, insanity is rare; but in groups, parties, nations and epochs, it is the rule. -- Friedrich Nietzsche
“How fortunate for those in power that people never think.” Adolph Hitler
Thank you Joe Suhrada for speaking for our generation and doing what many do not, expressing our gratitude to those who served and defended our country. These men and women are the true American Patriots. They love their country and the liberties that are guaranteed by our nation's founding documents.
I have recently been working with those in the Capital District Tea Party Patriot and Upstate Conservative Coalitions organizations who donate their time to volunteer to support non-profit veterans and not-for-profit youth organizations. On May 15th (Armed Forces Day), a group of us donated our time and effort to paint the pavilion, BBQ pit enclosure, shed, and fencing for the Gurtler Brothers VFW Post 420 in Saratoga Springs. The veterans were very appreciate and as an expression of their thanks served us a nice lunch. I encourage all to do what you can for our veterans and current members of our military. There are many worthy organizations (USO, VFW, AMVETS, American Legion, etc.) that need and deserve our support.
All Americans should be given this lesson. Those who think that America is an arrogant nation should really reconsider that thought. Our founding fathers used GOD's word and teachings to establish our Great Nation and I think it's high time Americans get re-educated about this Nation's history.
I hope you take the time to read this ... To understand what the flag Draped coffin really means ... Here is how to understand the flag that laid upon it and is surrendered to so many widows and widowers.
Do you know that at military funerals, the 21-gun salute stands for the sum of the numbers in the year 1776?
Have you ever noticed the honor guard pays meticulous attention to Correctly folding the United States of America Flag 13 times? You probably thought it was to symbolize the original 13 colonies, but we learn something new every day!
The 1st fold of the flag is a symbol of life.
The 2nd fold is a symbol of the belief in eternal life.
The 3rd fold is made in honor and remembrance of the veterans departing the ranks who gave a portion of their lives for the defense of the country to attain peace throughout the world.
The 4th fold represents the weaker nature, for as American citizens Trusting in God, it is to Him we turn in times of peace as well as in time of war for His divine guidance.
The 5th fold is a tribute to the 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 6th fold is for where people's hearts lie. It is with their heart that They pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States Of America, and the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with Liberty and Justice for all.
The 7th fold is a tribute to its Armed Forces, for it is through the Armed Forces that they protect their country and their flag against all her enemies, whether they be found within or without the boundaries of their republic.
The 8th 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.
The 9th fold is a tribute to womanhood, and Mothers. 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 10th fold is a tribute to the father, for he, too, has given his sons And daughters for the defense of their country since they were first born.
The 11th fold represents the lower portion of the seal of King David and King Solomon and glorifies in the Hebrews eyes, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.
The 12th fold represents an emblem of eternity and glorifies, in the Christians eyes, God the Father, the Son and Holy Spirit.
The 13th fold, or when the flag is completely folded, the stars are Uppermost reminding them of their nations motto, 'In God We Trust.'
After the flag is completely folded and tucked in, it takes on the Appearance of a cocked hat, ever reminding us of the soldiers who served under General George Washington, and the Sailors and Marines who served under Captain John Paul Jones, who were followed by their comrades and shipmates in the Armed Forces of the United States, preserving for them the rights, privileges and freedoms they enjoy today.
There are some traditions and ways of doing things that have deep meaning.
In the future, you'll see flags folded and now you will know why.
When the INSANE are running the ASYLUM In individuals, insanity is rare; but in groups, parties, nations and epochs, it is the rule. -- Friedrich Nietzsche
“How fortunate for those in power that people never think.” Adolph Hitler
Those with issues against EE, take it elsewhere. I for one have been clear on my position, however this is not the place to criticize her. This is where we say thank you to the men and women who gave it all so that we could have something. Thank you, Joe for writing this.
Good post Bumble. I was a Civil Air Patrol cadet and member of many color guards (including ones that marched in the Schenectady Xmas parade) and knew how to fold the flag (and how to take it off a flag staff without letting it touch the ground) but never knew that is what the folds meant.
A huge thanks to the men and woman that have served or do serve our nation.
It has been years since I was involved in the program, I was part of the Schenectady group that met (maybe still does?) at Stratton ANGB. Were you involved?
It has been years since I was involved in the program, I was part of the Schenectady group that met (maybe still does?) at Stratton ANGB. Were you involved?
Yep. late 70's and early 1980's - cadet to senior program, eventually to group and wing.
Bumble--just a little clarification --the 13 folds didn't happen to give each fold a meaning that happened later--forefathers/mothers did not do it. The flag is folded in this manner to set it apart from folding ordinary objects eg. bedsheet. It also adds a more dignified cermonial touch. Ascribing the meanings to the folds is very sweet but not the real "why." Not a criticism Bumble, many think that way. (I flew a flag yesterday. Put one at the cemetaries--was in patriotic mode) Your post makes for a nice read.
Also, the 21-gun salute was a myth also. I learned something, though. Even there are 7 firing three rounds each, it is still not a "21-gun salute"...it is merely a funeral custom. A 21-gun salute involved cannons or artillery.
I've only seen one true 21 gun salute and it was on the lawn in front of the steps at the Capital in Albany where 3, 105 artillary pieces marked the passing of a president, it may have been when Eisenhower died but it was a long time ago.
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