American flag etiquette with the Marines

Many American's are unaware that there are laws in regards to the American flag that can be found in detail in the United States Code. The flag code is a guide to encorage proper respect for the national ensign, although is has no provision for enforcment.

[@fdelval2]

much respect to that flag and what it stood for, even though those ideals are nowadays lost in its own country.

[@twylawoodring8826]

I taught all my troops, girl scouts and boy scouts, how to fold the flag using my dad's casket flag. It's been folded and refold dozens of times. I hope each of my troop members love and respect our flag as much as I do.

[@zackaryrients1863]

It's hard. But that why I live. God bless that soldier died for. .. me,,? Wow

[@silverdrillpickle7596]

Thank you and family for his Service 🫡

[@jeffreylombardo782]

the way he holds it to his heart! like they know the flag will never be unfulrled again. My fathers is 25 years in the box I made for it.My kids will get it.

[@bethhurewitz5647]

gosh I want one!

[@dorisdonaldson8299]

I started to cry...So meticulous, I have never seen this done before....Maybe we should send it everywhere so everyone can see and feel how special it is.

[@jeffreylombardo782]

you are so right. I cried too. I have my fathers flag. which I will pass to my kids.

[@RobertoGarcia-ni8vl]

I'm glad I wasn't the only one.

[@Krawlergarage]

this should be in our schools. I am a ex boy scout leader.when I left my troop all the boys took the flag raising and lowering and folding seriously . all had white gloves as part of the dress code . Thank you for the nice vid. I have my dads Marine corps flag.

[@zoegrlv9127]

Thanks to your Dad for His Service!! I Love Our Flag!❤❤❤

[@josmo1363]

I'm Australian and 30yrs ago as a kid, I bought an American flag to hang in our work area (basement) because it looked "cool" and also because my brother and I had grown up on WW2 movies, specifically American orientated. Over the years I served as a Cub, Scout, Venturer, Australian Army Reservist and Public Servant Security Officer, and in each role, I was required to raise and lower the Australian flag at some stage. I have therefore gained a strong respect for not only the American Flag but also my own as well as the respect flags deserve in general Recently I had to return home to care for my elderly mother after my Father passed away, Mum is no longer physically capable of staying in her home and we are in the process of moving so I can care for her in a better-suited home. During the obligatory cleanup, I found that the flag still hung downstairs. Although it is somewhat stained from being hung in a less than perfect environment, I have washed it and folded it as per this video, not because it is an American flag but because it is a *flag* and has hung in my family home for so many years and therefore I will store it from now on with pride for the memories it brings from those times back when I first bought it

[@zoegrlv9127]

That’s a beautiful story. Thank you for sharing. Also I believe all our Countries Flags are sacred! Australia has come a long way since it’s beginning. Be good to each other & don’t forget those who were there before you got there. Bless your Mom. I pray her years are easy ones!!❤❤

[@deanakennedy3878]

Still brings tears to my eyes. I was in the USAF honor guard for 3 years. It was a true honor for me to pay my respects to fallen veterans. Handing the folded flag to a widow was the most difficult. Very difficult to stay composed and professional. But I had to.

[@franchiseowner1668]

The discipline is so remarkable. The team work and just the comradeship is something vets miss the most. Knowing you belong to a family and your brothers always have your back is humbling.

[@bethhurewitz5647]

I'm sure it's been said here already, this was one of the most humbling experiences of my life, to stand and be the recipient of my father's flag. The flag bearers were other-worldly.

[@theburukowsky3366]

This is awesome. Respect from Poland

[@pmtristan]

At Gunner09 I was a boy scout and a FMF Corpsman Now I'm a funeral director and have done more military funerals than you've probably seen flag folding. 3 of the guys I served with were Boy Scouts then Marines. Good Marines who gave proper credit for integrity that followed into the corps. Granted Boy Scouts are not Marines but many become the Few the Proud. Esprit DeCorps!!!

[@emilymc57]

The American Flag no matter you see it or you feel pride , honor , but it had stories threw the years and stands tall for freedom our American men and who serve our country and gave their lives for Freedom . The Flag is folded in such elegance and grace and respect..The Marines do do beautiful it like a Diamond that its priceless.

[@JohnBrownHawaii]

Mahalo for posting. Brought tears to my eyes. As a member of the Hawaii District Elks Lodges, we will be performing the Elks Flag Day Ceremony on board the USS Missouri this Saturday June 14, 2014. The American flag holds a special place in our hearts. Happy seeing it treated with respect.

[@slapinthehead]

John I hope that your ceremony will be recorded and will be posted so I can watch. I'm sure that you will do an outstanding job honoring our Flag. William J Crowe PER Medford # 915

[@gcruz7821]

So beautifully done so symbolic I love America land of brave. GOD BLESS AMERICA.

[@joelc.1591]

tearing up just seeing the folding of a flag, but its more than just a flag...

[@erikvanwees9633]

Thank you from Europe

[@njneopatriot]

The American Flag takes on the look of a Revolutionary Minuteman's and/or Commander's hat when folded ceremonially (whenever the flag is handled it should be handled ceremonially). The American Flag Is and will always be my object of faith ... Semper Fidelious!

[@SparrowSixFive]

Thank you all so much for your service and all your sacrifices for this great Country and for my freedoms! Stay safe, be well and keep kicking ass for America! Hugs, Sparrow Six-Five!

[@RazorPL01]

Very nice video. Greetings from Poland

[@superman-xm3kz]

Beautiful. bring loving tears to my eyes

[@archuka1]

Thank you -- from one soldier to another

[@aZakthatAttacks]

I remember, My Grandfather received a flag like that at his funeral. For all his years in the Navy.

[@valeriedavis6855]

This would be a good demonstration at some public schools, particularly on the middle and high school levels, during an assembly or sporting event.

[@slapinthehead]

OOOOHRAAAH.......my eyes get wet everytime I witness that ceremony. SEMPER FI

[@bcellable]

No greater honor than to serve in the corp. My father, ret. USMC Captain James B. Sell. Till my life's end, love for the Corp.

[@ricturtle]

Thank you for the education I appreciate it. I have had a couple of friends go through the Marine corp. I did not join as i am from another country.

[@chadeoux]

@Gunnerev09 I served active duty Marine Corps from 1996-2005. I was a SSgt select when I got out and took absolutely no disrespect from kowz4u's comments. The boyscouts are a wonderful organization. The Marine Corps is the greatest military force. He/she was not comparing them and using them in the same sentence shows no disrespect. Once you have served in the Corps you can say what you want about it, that is the freedom serving and America has.

[@the-potato-warrior]

I saw a marine get buried...(old age) Was an amazing and powerful experience. Rock on

[@NWA744]

Interesting to see how the Marines fold the flag vs the Army and Air Force.

[@zoegrlv9127]

??? How is it different from one Branch to another? This surprises me. I didn’t think there were differences in folding Our Flag!!

[@Achewen123]

That we could bring this honor and respect back to OUR country.

[@hallie5309]

very nice!!!! I was not in the army. But I find this very moving!

[@justinseymour4364]

this is real joyful and amazing

[@jasonfagan4562]

Very lovely, done very nice.

[@zoegrlv9127]

Such a beautiful & moving ceremony!! Our Country’s Flag is the symbol of Democracy, Freedom, & Love of Our Country!! I refuse to feel like I can’t fly my Flag because of the way others use it!! We are about FREEDOM!! That’s what our Service Men & Women fight for! I appreciate Our Flag & Our Brothers & Sisters who fight for Us!! I support them! Check out Til Valhalla Project to see all the good work the Veterans are doing for each other!! 22 suicides a day is 22 TOO MANY! This organization helps with Therapy & with a Plaque to Honor our Soldiers who have gone on to Valhalla! I support my Country & these Brothers & Sisters who are working hard to Fight the Fight that’s happening here once they come HOME!!! God / Goddess Bless America 🇺🇸 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@k0matsupc128us2]

@ Gunner The comparison made is within the context of RESPECT FOR OUR NATION AND ITS COLORS. Our Scouts are respectful and honorable young men who know the sacrifices made under our flag. They show respect when in its presence, and handle it with pride and integrity. Dont EVER forget we all share this duty. We are the same in this way. We ALWAYS compare our armed forces to our flag. This is why we respect it so much. Thank you all for what you do! We Love you and will always remember.

[@venomshotzz79]

With every star represents a state every stripe represents a colony creating the flag we know and protect, every star and stripe has a marine that serves and protects not only that star or stripe but all stars and stripes as a brotherhood a sisterhood where we are all brought together as a country, as a nation

[@justinc7362]

Beautiful

[@rosalindamuniz3324]

me gustaría tener la oportunidad de conocer y conversar con los oficiales de Marina cómo el general, los sargentos y de más y escribir un libro . osea una visita guiada. siempre me a gustado. claro que soñar no cuesta nada.

[@binthrdonthat]

Thank you Marines, Semper Fi

[@Jesse-ii3iz]

*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. *The fourth fold* represents our weaker nature, for 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, 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 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 her enemies, whether they be found within or without the boundaries of our republic. *The eighth fold* is a tribute to the one who entered in to the valley of the shadow of death, that we might see the light of day, and to honor 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 they were first born. *The eleventh fold* in the eyes of a Hebrew citizen, 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. When the flag is completely folded at the *thirteenth fold* the stars are uppermost, reminding us of our national 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 us the rights, privileges, and freedoms we enjoy today.

[@ZebualD]

@Gunnerev09 thank you so much for that sir

[@Baither]

I got a question, for all the silence the body bearers shows in the ceremonies what do they say to the loved ones receiving the flag ? As a foreigner this always crossed my mind.

[@elizabethszwed7851]

Beautiful 🇺🇸

[@ijeffreytrian6511]

I will never take a knee

[@TommyValentine]

Would love to use the clip in a remembrance tribute video for fallen soldiers...May I , Thank you so very much

[@AffordBindEquipment]

technical question: I need to refold my father-in-laws flag to get the stars to line up before I put it in the flag box I built. Some vids show the first fold having the corners line up, like this one. Some, there is an overhang of about 2" on the first fold. What is the overhang for? Does it make the stars line up better when completed? Or is this more ceremonial? Why the difference between the 2 ways?

[@zoegrlv9127]

My knowledge is that the Two inches is to tuck in the end of the Flag to keep it together after it’s folded. You could try going to a local American Legion, VFW, & ask if they can help you with folding it. Good luck!

[@1978ford250]

"I only regret that i have but one life to give for my country" God forbid my mother is ever given one of those, but should that time come ill be one proud dead Marine. For all you people against the military. Dont forget that the same blood, sweat and tears that bought my freedom bought yours too. "I don't want to die for you But if dyin's asked of me I'll bear that cross with honor 'Cause freedom don't come free Im and American soldier"

[@zoegrlv9127]

Hear Hear!! Though I’d rather we not have wars; I’m very supportive & Proud of Our Countries Military!! Each & Every One of YOU!!!!

[@walderlj45able]

No nation can do it better than our troops US Marines

[@mattk6719]

This particular Honor Guard is wearing their alphas, but alphas are typically not authorized for funeral details. I don't know why. But every single one of the 150+ funeral honors details I have participated in has been with ribbons and badges, not medals. Does anyone know why?

[@bug6142]

This is the official Marine body bearing team at 8th&i. These guys entire job is being a body bearer. They do things a little differently then the average marine funeral detail!

[@stevenshelby5421]

in what scenario would the flag need to be folded like this, instead of the traditional tuck-in that you see all the time. I think this way is beautiful but I'd like to know if there is a difference in presentation with this style of folding

[@xMallNinjax1]

Lol the fact that you don't know is very concerning. I bet you've never seen combat or let alone served. I smell some stolen valor.

[@franchiseowner1668]

It's only stolen valor if he claims to be a veteran to benefit himself. OBVIOUSLY he never served. I see what ya mean though. If he doesnt know then forget it. No everyone can be a soldier.

[@Ament76]

Would you please share the theme song? Thank you in advance.

[@God_Bless_America]

God Bless America 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@andreataggart1]

But can they fold a fitted sheet?

[@jakubneugebauer2108]

song ?

[@MrStaybrown]

I dare you to call him a lance Corporal to his face. 2 chevrons up with cross rifles = Corporal...a NCO.

[@tubesockcrack]

@Gunnerev09 you should really capitalize Marines if your all about showing respect

[@brendaruthizer6737]

but what does each fold mean? Love to know the story behind the folding.

[@brendaruthizer6737]

The flag folding ceremony is full of meaning and symbolism. Prior to a flag being presented or stored, flag handlers will fold it in half lengthwise twice and then fold it in triangles until the other end is reached. The result is a triangular “pillow” formed by thirteen folds with only the blue starred field showing. The thirteen folds represent the original thirteen colonies of the United States. Each fold also carries its own meaning. Flag ceremony scripts attribute different symbolism to each fold, including freedom, life, religious beliefs, honoring mothers and fathers, and honoring those who serve in the Armed Forces. The flag is folded so that only the blue starred field shows. This is because the stars on the blue field represent states that U.S. veterans served while in uniform. Even the shape of the folded flag is symbolic. It resembles a cocked hat, representing the soldiers, sailors, and marines who served in the Revolutionary War, as well as the many who have served in the U.S. armed forces since then. The flag folding ceremony is ultimately a form of respect. The flag is folded in a specific way because it provides a dignified ceremonial touch that distinguishes folding a flag from folding an ordinary object such as a blanket or sheet. The ceremonial meanings attributed to each fold have developed over time into a rich tradition.

[@zoegrlv9127]

Read through this thread. One person stated what each fold meant. It was very interesting. Something I didn’t know. I love learning something new every day!

[@RobertoGarcia-ni8vl]

Oh man ! Man tears. !!!!

[@grummanroy1999]

🇺🇸

[@Radialvalve]

It was OK.I served for 4 years in the Old Guard, and we did it better! The remainder should be tucked in, not left loose.

[@troyellis4242]

The video only shows the flag being folded, when don't know what they are doing it for, maybe it's being moved and won't be moved from the Marines hands. Maybe what they are doing doesn't need the flag to be tucked. 🤷‍♂️

[@blackhawk1654]

one dislike, i guess osama learned his lesson

[@Wabbaaajack]

Much harder to do when you only have 3 people

[@FlashTheTornadoTruck]

Why does this make me sad ;-;

[@krackerflaterpater]

Semper Fi dude. Semper Fi, Do Or Die Kill Kill Kill. Watch Full Metal Jacket and get back to me

[@BananaBean03]

thats harcore like all the way across the sky

[@mbuggy11]

it's just moisture

[@SB-wv8yr]

🌐🗽🇺🇲👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@PanMakaron]

Holy shit

[@scoutbr00]

1:22 his gloves are kinda dirty

[@themocaw]

The ink and dye from the flag rubs off on the gloves.

[@AssassinRainbowFNAF]

jejciu :O

[@jmeyer3rn]

This is so beautiful. These Marines are precise and respectful toward this symbol of the nation they serve. Why cannot members of NFL football teams who get paid a million dollars a game stand at attention for 2 minutes for the National Anthem?

[@zoegrlv9127]

Come on now. If you’ve read or heard him speak about why he bent his knee & knelt, then you know that it’s NOT about disrespecting the Flag. It’s about bringing attention to a Problem that exists & needs to be Fixed!! I’m an extremely Patriotic person & I completely support what that young man was standing or kneeling for!! It’s very important that he & the others who followed him, are heard!! I am disappointed in the NFL for firing him because he was speaking out!! This issue needs to be addressed!! Who’s going to do something about this!! Don’t sweep it under the carpet by firing the young man. It’s not going to stay there!!

[@michael7324]

Im a bit confused by the first fold. Its a normal fold and not a triangular fold like i have been tought.

[@paulfranzen9196]

If it takes six Marines to fold a flag, how many does it take to drive a car?

[@makm84]

karamba hurbu zielona pietruszka

[@bigram2]

Gunner needs to chill...

[@she5152]

WHAT! Did you see those ragged gloves at the very end worn and torn almost had holes in them and dirt, by God the Navy would have my ASS thrown in Irons for such uniform raggedness and disrespect, If I was there I would snap that Marine so quick into the position of attention his knees would be heard rattling all the way back to the Commandant. Way to much pampering in the Corp today.

[@danielpeterson8652]

S He shut the fuck up no one cares. The Navy is full of pussies and no one gives a shit about your knee rattling attention calling, drill instructor toxic leadership bullshit. Sit down

[@pngarcia1563]

Yeah you would! Get back in your hole squid!

[@slapinthehead]

ironoff FU

[@KKurtz215]

What the hell is going on Marines? Spell check your videos. Jesus "although is has no provision for enforcment."

[@skyblock213]

Just a flag..

[@chaseholloway1912]

What? Who taught marines how to fold a flag? I mean good showmanship but just over done and they didnt even tuck. you dont need 6 people to fold a flag 😂 Did they even start with an open to open triangle or just a straight fold towards the stars? Come on guys lol

[@sanchito2094]

Chase Holloway Your mom.

[@cloudzofchill2314]

Chase Holloway ARE YOU FUCKING COMMUNIST?!!!!!MY DAD IS A MARINE AND HE WAS IN THE HONOR GAURD AND HE SAID YOU ARE SUPPOSED TO HAVE 6 MEN TO FOLD OUR FLAG!!!!!!

[@NWA744]

However many men fold the flag depends on the ceremony and the status of the deceased. Active Duty funerals generally get an 8 man flag fold, retired veterans 6, and veterans 2. If the deceased were cremated, then it is often just a two man ceremony. I do not know if the Marines follow that exactly but the Army and Air Force do.