Apparenty Mrs. Obama had a serious problem with the amount of pomp and circumstance given to the American flag at the 911 ceremonies.  She appeared to ask  “All of this for a flag?” 

 

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g2SQUXjxUS8?rel=0] Hat Tip: The Blaze

We cannot be sure of what she said at that ceremony.  In fact we shouldn’t waste another minute on it.

During my time in the Air Force, I had the pleasure and honor to serve on the Air Force Honor Guard. I have helped carry the casket of a fallen veteran, with the flag draped over it. I have helped fold the American flag in the silence of a hot Florida summer afternoon. The sweep of our gloved hands and the snap of the flag drawn taut as we honor the fallen were the sweet sounds of us paying respect to someone who gave their all for our nation. Many times the weeping of loved ones could be heard. After the 13 folds, one of us, (my privelege on a few occasions) would place the flag over our heart and carry it over to the widow, or family member. As you drop to one knee and face the sad teary eyed face, you thank them on behalf of the United States for their sacrifice. You gently place the flag in their hands. Then you turn and go to your ceremonial weapon to prepare the 21 gun salute. There was many a funeral I fired my weapon three times with tears in my eyes. That is one part of what all of the hubbub is about. Honor.

Here is information on the meaning of the 13 folds: via I’m for Kids (although it can be found in numerous places on the web)

  

Here is the meaning of each of those folds:

The first fold of our Flag is a symbol of life.

The second fold is a symbol of our belief in eternal life.

The third fold is made in honor and remembrance of the veterans departing our ranks who gave a portion of their lives for the defense of our country to attain peace throughout the world.

The fourth fold represents our weaker nature, for as American citizens trusting, it is to Him we turn in times of peace as well as in time 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 into 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, their love, loyalty and devotion that the character of the men and women who have made this country great has been molded.

The tenth fold is a tribute to the 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 Spirit.

When the Flag is completely folded, the stars are uppermost reminding us of our Nation’s 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.

Watch a flag being folded below…

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x_i6mMBUCts]