Tricorn (flag)
Dreispitz ( English cocked hat ) is the name for the triangular folded flag of the United States .
Surname
The name Dreispitz is derived from the triangular headgear of the same name .
application
Although not stipulated in the regulations of the US armed forces, the triangular shape has become standard for storing the US flag . Even at funerals of members of the armed forces and prominent personalities, where the coffin is covered with the stars and stripes, the flag is folded in the shape of the tricorn and handed over to the next of kin.
On certain occasions, e.g. For example, on Memorial Day or Veterans Day , the flag is raised with a special ceremony that also includes the folding of the tricorn.
meaning
The stars and stripes have a special meaning for the residents of the United States, which is also reflected in the handling of the flag and the respect that is shown to it. Storage in a triangular shape should therefore not only be seen as space-saving and gentle on the flag material, which in this form is only exposed to external influences on a small area, but also in a respectful handling of this symbol.
folding
In order to bring it into the correct triangular shape, the flag is folded twice lengthways, then 13 triangular folds of the resulting strip are made. Any protruding remnants of the flag are finally tucked in to create a compact package. Only a corner of the star studded jack remains visible .
Other states
Triangular folding has also become common in the Croatian armed forces . For example, the flag of Croatia is folded in the same way for storage on military occasions.