Understanding when and why flags are flown at half-mast is a sign of respect and mourning in both the United States and Texas. While today the Texas flag may be at full-staff, it’s important to know the occasions that call for flags to be lowered to half-mast. This practice serves as a visible symbol of honor, remembrance, and solemn respect, typically ordered by the government to recognize significant losses or events.
Flags are flown at half-mast as a directive from governing authorities, including presidential proclamations in the U.S. and orders from the Texas state government. These directives are issued to acknowledge periods of national mourning, such as the passing of prominent government officials, military personnel who have died in service, or in remembrance of national tragedies. According to the Texas Government Code, Chapter 3100, specific guidelines dictate the proper display of the Texas flag, including half-mast procedures.
The protocol for lowering a flag to half-mast is precise. It should first be raised briskly to its full height, and then slowly lowered to the half-staff position. This same procedure is reversed when the period of mourning ends; the flag is first raised briskly to full-staff before being lowered for the day. This act of raising the flag to full-staff initially, even when it is to be flown at half-mast, is a sign of respect for the flag itself before it is positioned to represent mourning.
While specific reasons for half-mast orders vary, they consistently serve to unite communities in grief and recognition. It’s a visual way for both the state and nation to collectively acknowledge loss and pay tribute. For detailed regulations and further understanding of flag display protocols, especially in Texas, consulting the Texas Government Code Chapter 3100 is recommended for citizens, businesses, and governmental bodies alike.
