When is it appropriate to fly a flag at half-staff? It’s a serious question with plenty of ramifications. Flying a flag at half-staff is a powerful symbol of mourning, respect, and remembrance. It can also be called flying at half-mast, and though this usually refers to the flag’s display at sea, the terms may be interchangeable. But when is it appropriate to lower the flag? This guide will walk you through the history, reasons, and proper procedures for flying a flag at half-staff, helping you stay faithful to the significance and dignity of the act while avoiding potential offense.

What Does Flying a Flag at Half-Staff Mean?

In general, every American flag should be at the top of its flagpole for most ceremonies, holidays, and everyday display. Putting it at half-staff is only acceptable in certain situations, such as when showing respect, mourning, or support.

The tradition is an old one, stretching back far before the birth of the United States of America. Half-staff flying has long been around to honor the dead, tragic events, collective grief, significant individuals, and similar situations.

The United States Flag Code outlines proper display for the American flag, which includes when and where to display it at half-staff. While the code is not a law, it does serve to ensure consistency.

Historical Context of Flying a Flag at Half-Staff

The tradition of flying flags at half-staff likely dates to antiquity, though the first historical record turns up in the 1600s among sailors. Ships lowered their flags to signify a loss or to salute commanders and others who had fallen in battle.

In the United States, there is some evidence the flag was first flown at half-staff upon the death of President George Washington in 1799. On March 1, 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower issued a proclamation about when to fly the flag in this manner. Since then, the flag has been lowered for dignitaries’ deaths, tragedies, and the like, encouraging reflection and honoring the dead. Clearly, half-staff flying is not a gesture to use lightly.

When Should You Fly the Flag at Half-Staff?

There are many specific instances that warrant flying the US flag at half-staff.

National Observances Ordered by the President

The President of the United States may issue a proclamation to lower flags to half-staff for specific events or in response to tragedies and catastrophes. For example, this proclamation often occurs after natural disasters, such as earthquakes, floods, and hurricanes, or after significant acts of violence, such as mass shootings.

Honoring Military Personnel and First Responders

It is acceptable to lower the US flag to honor the sacrifices of fallen military service members and first responders. Interestingly, Memorial Day is a holiday when flags fly at half-staff until noon, then rise to full-staff for the remainder of the day.

Mourning National Leaders

When a sitting or former US President passes away, flags should fly at half-staff for 30 days. The flag may also be lowered over or near public buildings following the deaths of other high-ranking officials, such as the Vice President, Supreme Court justices, or members of Congress. This will be per orders from the President or state governors.

Local and State Observances

Governors may also issue proclamations for their states to lower flags in recognition of significant state officials or tragedies affecting their local communities.

Specific Holidays

As we mentioned, the flag is flown at half-staff for part of Memorial Day, but other holidays also require lowered flags. These include Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day (December 7) and September 11 (Patriot Day).

How To Properly Fly a Flag at Half-Staff

Lowering the flag to half-staff might seem easy enough, but be sure you’re following the code. Here are a few more things to remember when you set up your flag:

• Raising the flag: Always raise the flag briskly to the top of the pole before lowering it slowly to half-staff.
• Position: Half-staff means the flag must be halfway between the top and bottom of the flagpole. If the pole is short, ensure the flag’s position is roughly proportional.
• Lowering the flag: At the end of the day, or when the observance concludes, raise the flag back to full staff before lowering it completely.

Adhering to these practices maintains the dignity of the flag and the gesture of flying it at half-staff.

Other Frequently Asked Questions

Here are a few answers to commonly asked questions.

How Do I Know When To Fly the Flag at Half-Staff?

Watch the news and the White House or state government websites. Announcements come through presidential proclamations or state government notices. Your local government website may also provide alerts on placing flags at half-staff.

Can Individuals Lower Their Personal Flags?

Flags at public and governmental buildings and other institutions will be handled by personnel who work there, but what if you have a flagpole on the property of your home or business? Can you raise or lower your flag as well? Of course. Show unity and support by doing so in response to the president’s or governor’s proclamation.

What Should I Do if I Don’t Have a Flagpole?

For indoor flags displayed on a wall, covering the flag with a black ribbon or crepe is an acceptable alternative when mourning. If you fly a flag outdoors by placing it in a double-holder bracket mounted to a wall, place the flag in the lower holder.

Should the Flag Be at Half-Staff on the Fourth of July?

Independence Day, also known as the Fourth of July, is a day of national celebration of freedom and independence. Therefore, American flags should fly at full height.

Can I Fly Multiple Flags at Half-Staff?

Absolutely. It is permissible to fly multiple flags at half-staff, following the same guidelines as with a single flag. This includes state, local, business, and other flags. Each flag should be raised to full height and then slowly lowered to the halfway point. The American flag, however, should always be above the others.

How Long Should a Flag Be at Half-Staff?

It varies, so take note of the day or the proclamation. Often, the flag should fly at half-mast for 30 days.

We’ve addressed the question of when it is appropriate to fly a flag at half-staff. Now, are you ready to celebrate freedom and honor the memories of the departed with a beautiful and durable American flag? If you’re looking for US flags for sale online, check out Action Flag for a fine selection. And don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions!