Cape Fear Realtors (CFR) association Chairman Chris Royal represents about 1,200 realtors. The John E. Jacobs American Legion Post 68 conducted the flag-folding ceremony, “13 Folds,” at the CFR November meeting.

Post 68 of Leland focuses on two main efforts. The first is to support our local veterans, and the second is to promote outreach in our community to remember, honor and teach.

Chris Royal, BIC Broker for Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Advantage, invited Post 68 to make the “13 Folds” presentation. Post members who made the presentation were Jim McAvoy, Lane Adrian, Mike Mabee, Vice Commander John Hacker, Les Christianson and Post 68 Commander Dan Fortini.

The flag-folding ceremony represents the same religious principles on which our great country was originally founded.

At the end of the folding ceremony, after the flag is completely folded and tucked in, it has the appearance of a cocked hat. This reminds us of the soldiers who served under General George Washington and the sailors and Marines who served under Captain John Paul Jones and were followed by their comrades and shipmates in the U.S. Armed Forces, preserving for us the rights, privileges and freedoms we enjoy today.

The source and the date of origin of this flag-folding procedure is unknown. However, some sources attribute it to the Gold Star Mothers of America while others to an Air Force chaplain stationed at the United States Air Force Academy. Some sources also indicate that the 13 folds are a nod to the original first 13 colonies. The flag folding ceremony is provided as a patriotic service.