Understanding when and why flags are flown at half-staff is a matter of respect and national observance. While today, the Texas flag is at full-staff, it’s important to know the significance of half-staff and the protocols surrounding it, both in Texas and more broadly.
The practice of flying a flag at half-staff, also known as half-mast in nautical contexts, is a powerful symbol of mourning, distress, or respect, particularly for deceased individuals of national or local significance, or in remembrance of tragic events. It is a visual expression of collective grief and solidarity.
In Texas, the display of the state and national flags is guided by the Texas Government Code. This code encourages all entities, from state agencies to private citizens, to display the Texas and United States flags as a mark of honor. When the flag is ordered to be flown at half-staff, specific procedures must be followed. Crucially, the flag should first be raised briskly to its full height, and then slowly lowered to the half-staff position. This initial raising to full-staff is a moment of respect before lowering in mourning.
Alt text: The Texas state flag waving gently in the breeze, symbolizing state pride and adherence to flag display protocols.
It’s also worth noting that locations displaying multiple flags, such as historical flags alongside the US and Texas flags, have specific guidelines. While each entity determines its policy for these additional flags during half-staff observances, it’s generally recommended that when half-staff is ordered, the US and Texas flags are flown at half-staff, and other flags might be removed to maintain the solemnity and precedence of the national and state flags. No other flag should ever be flown higher than the US or Texas flag.
For detailed regulations and answers to specific questions about flag display, the Texas Government Code Chapter 3100 provides comprehensive information. Understanding these guidelines ensures that flag displays are respectful, meaningful, and in accordance with established protocols. While today is a full-staff day, knowing the procedures for half-staff is vital for properly observing future occasions of remembrance and respect.
