Flag Day ceremony pays homage to American flag in Jackson
Celebrated at Liberty Garden Arboretum & Park, June 14 commemorated Flag Day and the concerted effort made by local veterans and political officials to honor the American flag.
In addition to the honoring of Flag Day, the recognition of the U.S. Army's 248th birthday was celebrated at the event. 11-year-old Alyvia Baxter, a member of the Pinson Mounds Children of the American Revolution Society, began the ceremony by leading the Pledge of Allegiance.
Jackson Mayor Scott Conger subsequently took to the podium to share the significance of what these conjunctive events mean to Americans.
"Throughout its history, the army has stood courageously against tyranny and injustice, safeguarding our nation and its people," Conger said. "We owe a debt of gratitude to the soldiers who have answered the call to serve, often in challenging and dangerous circumstances."
Adding that the flag "serves as a beacon of hope, unity, and resilience," Conger encouraged attendees to remember the contributions and sacrifices of service men and women, both past and present.
Victor Corson, a Korean and Vietnam War veteran, began his story by sharing the immense pride he takes in his service and his country.
"Remember that you are American citizens and to be proud of it every day of your life," he said. "It is not something to take lightly. There are many service personnel who are not here today because you are free in a country that has more to offer than any other nation in the world. Remember that."
Along with the Vietnam Veterans Honor Guard Chapter 995, Paul Reynolds narrated the significance of each of the 13 folds of the American flag, a presentation typically performed at military funerals and ceremonies. According to Reynolds, fold significance is broken down by the following:
First fold: A symbol of life.
Second fold: Symbolizes our belief in eternal life.
Third fold: Made in honor and remembrance of the Veteran's parting their ranks who gave a portion of their lives in defense of our country and to attain peace throughout the world.
Fourth fold: Our weaker nature, for as American citizens trusting in God, it is to whom we turn in times of peace as well in times of war for his guidance.
Fifth fold: A tribute to our country.
Sixth fold: Where our hearts lie and it is with our hearts that we pledge allegiance to the United States of America.
Seventh fold: A tribute to our American 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.
Eighth fold: A tribute to the ones who entered into the valley of the shadow of death, that they might see the light of the day.
Ninth fold: 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 have been molded.
Tenth fold: A tribute to the fathers for they too have given their sons and daughters for the defense of our nation since they were first born.
Eleventh fold: Represents the lower portion of the seal of the King of David and King Soloman and glorifies in the Hebrew's eyes the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob
Twelfth fold: Represents an emblem of eternity and glorifies in the Christian's eyes God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
Thirteenth fold: For where the flag is completely folded and the stars are uppermost, reminding us of our nation's motto, "in God we trust."
As rain trickled down from the sky, the ceremony concluded with the playing of Radney Foster's "Angel Flight," a song that pays homage to the Texas Air National Guard C-130 responsible for transporting the bodies of fallen soldiers.
This article originally appeared on Jackson Sun: Flag Day ceremony pays homage to American flag in Jackson
