Our nation’s “colors” were folded 13 times on the triangles, representing the 13 original colonies. With exacting precision, these two young servicemembers carefully folded the flag into the symbolic tri-cornered shape, representing the three-sided hats worn by our troops during the Revolutionary War. ![]() After “Taps” was finished, two members of the Coast Guard Honor Guard approached the casket to begin the ceremonial folding of the American flag, which had been carefully draped over the casket so the union blue field was at the head and over the left shoulder of my friend. Yes, I found myself wiping away tears as the last note was played. Here are just the first of his five stanzas:įrom the lake, from the hills, from the sky Although there are no official associated lyrics, Horace Lorenzo Trim is often credited with a set of words intended to accompany the music. I don’t know about you, but every time I hear those 24 somber notes of “Taps” played, I feel my emotions well up inside me. ![]() The funeral, replete with military honors, included a gun salute, the playing of “Taps”, the ceremonial folding of the American flag, and the presentation of “the colors” to the family. ![]() As I was reflecting on this special day, I recalled my recent attendance earlier this month at the funeral of a dear Coast Guard friend of over 40 years. Next Monday, as we celebrate Memorial Day, we will honor those men and women of our Armed Forces who paid the ultimate sacrifice so that we may enjoy our everyday freedoms.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |