A special 9/11 memorial service was held Sunday afternoon at Shiloh Cumberland Presbyterian Church.

The service featured not only special messages and music, but also a presentation by the Greene County Honor Guard on how to properly fold an American flag.

During her keynote address, the Rev. Tammy Greene, pastor of Shiloh Church, quoted a scripture reading from Judges 6:12-16.

Her message, entitled "Fallen Heroes," paid homage to the fallen victims of the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the United States, including the brave men and women who risked their own lives to save others on that fateful day.

Also speaking briefly during service was Alan Foshee, of the Johnson City Fire Department, who paid homage to the fallen officers of 9-11.

The flag for the event was presented by the family of Henry Everette Bird, a long-time member of Shiloh Church who died earlier this year at the age of 91.

Bird was a veteran of World War II, and the flag folded during the ceremony had been draped on his casket during his funeral services.

During the folding of the flag by Honor Guard members Hart Covington and his brother, Don Covington, an explanation of the meaning of each flag fold was presented by Grady Barefield, commander of the American Legion Post No. 64.

Barefield explained that there are 13 folds when properly folding the American flag.

The following is an explanation of each fold:

* 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 in God, 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 Decaur, "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.

* The ninth fold is 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 has been molded.

* The tenth fold is a tribute to the father, for he, too, has given his sons and daughters for defense of our country since they were first born.

* The eleventh fold represents the lower portion of the seal of King David and King Solomon and glorifies, in Hebrews' eyes, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.

* The twelfth fold represents an emblem of eternity and glorifies, in Christians' eyes, God the Father, the Son, and Holy Spirit.

* The thirteenth fold, or when the flag is completely folded, the stars are uppermost reminding us of our nation's motto, "In God We Trust."