Have you noticed the American flag flying at half-staff and wondered about the reason? Observing the flag at half-staff is a solemn act of respect and mourning in the United States, carried out according to specific protocols and for designated occasions. Understanding why the flag is lowered to half-staff provides insight into moments of national significance and remembrance.
What Does “Half-Staff” Mean?
Flying the flag at half-staff, also referred to as “half-mast,” signifies mourning, distress, or respect for the deceased. The position itself is symbolic; the flag, when lowered, is no longer at the peak of the flagpole, representing a lowering of the nation’s spirits in remembrance or grief. This visual signal is a powerful way to convey collective mourning and honor individuals or events of national importance.
Who Orders the Flag to Half-Staff?
The authority to order the American flag to be flown at half-staff primarily rests with the President of the United States. The President can issue a proclamation directing that the flag be flown at half-staff nationwide, often for specific periods. Governors of individual states also have the authority to order the flag to half-staff within their state, typically to honor state-specific losses or events.
Common Occasions for Flying the Flag at Half-Staff
The American flag is ordered to half-staff on several recurring occasions throughout the year, as well as for specific unforeseen events. Some of the most common instances include:
- Memorial Day: Observed annually on the last Monday of May, the flag is flown at half-staff until noon in remembrance of those who have died while serving in the U.S. military.
- Peace Officers Memorial Day: On May 15th, the flag is flown at half-staff to honor fallen law enforcement officers.
- Patriot Day: On September 11th, the flag is flown at half-staff in remembrance of the victims of the September 11th terrorist attacks.
- Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day: On December 7th, the flag is flown at half-staff to honor those who died in the attack on Pearl Harbor.
- Death of Key Figures: Upon the death of a president, former president, vice-president, Supreme Court Justice, or other principal figures, the flag is often ordered to half-staff. The duration can vary depending on the individual and the circumstances.
- National Tragedies: In the wake of national tragedies, such as mass shootings or other events causing widespread loss of life and grief, the President may order the flag to half-staff as a sign of national mourning.
How to Display the Flag at Half-Staff
Proper etiquette dictates a specific procedure for flying the flag at half-staff. The flag should first be raised briskly to its peak, and then slowly lowered to the half-staff position. When it is time to raise the flag again, it should first be raised briskly to the peak before being lowered for the day. This practice ensures that the flag is first raised in honor before being lowered to half-staff for mourning.
Understanding why the American flag is at half-staff today connects us to moments of shared national experience, whether in times of mourning or remembrance. It serves as a visual reminder of our collective history and values.
