- Fold in half lengthwise.
- Fold in half again.
- From the fly end, fold a triangle from the folded edge to the open edge.
- Repeat triangle folds toward the canton.
- Continue triangle folds.
- Repeat.
- There are 13 folds in total so keep going.
- Getting close to the end.
Why do they fold the American flag in a triangle?
The flag gets folded into a triangle because it is actually meant to resemble a tri-cornered hat, like the ones worn by George Washington and other soldiers who served in the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War. By the end of the folding, the flag's red and white stripes should no longer be visible.
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 is the flag folded 13 times at a funeral?
This is what the 13 folds mean: The first fold of our flag is a symbol of life. The second fold signifies our belief in eternal life. The third fold is made in honor and tribute 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.