Is the American Flag at Half-Mast Today?
The American flag is a powerful symbol of our nation’s history, values, and aspirations. It is flown proudly on government buildings, schools, businesses, and homes across the country. But there are times when the flag is flown at half-mast, or half-staff, as a sign of mourning or respect.
When is the American Flag Flown at Half-Mast?
According to the United States Flag Code, the flag should be flown at half-mast on the following occasions:
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Death of a government official: The flag is flown at half-mast on the day of death and the following day for the following government officials:
- The President of the United States
- The Vice President of the United States
- A member of the Supreme Court
- A member of the Cabinet
- A member of Congress
- A governor of a state or territory
- A mayor of a city with a population of over 25,000
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Death of a military member: The flag is flown at half-mast on the day of death and the following day for any member of the Armed Forces who dies while on active duty.
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Death of a peace officer: The flag is flown at half-mast on the day of death and the following day for any peace officer who dies in the line of duty.
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Death of a firefighter: The flag is flown at half-mast on the day of death and the following day for any firefighter who dies in the line of duty.
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Death of a foreign leader: The flag is flown at half-mast on the day of death and the following day for any foreign leader who has been accorded a state funeral by the United States government.
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National Day of Mourning: The President may order the flag to be flown at half-mast on a National Day of Mourning.
How to Properly Fly the Flag at Half-Mast
To properly fly the flag at half-mast, follow these steps:
- Hoist the flag to the top of the staff.
- Lower the flag to half-staff. The bottom of the flag should be about two-thirds of the way down the staff.
- Secure the flag in place.
When to Return the Flag to Full-Staff
The flag should be returned to full-staff at sunset on the day following the event for which it was flown at half-mast.
Etiquette for the American Flag at Half-Mast
When the flag is flown at half-mast, it is important to observe proper etiquette. Here are some guidelines:
- Do not fly the flag upside down.
- Do not fly the flag in a torn or damaged condition.
- Do not fly the flag in bad weather.
- Do not fly the flag on a vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is the flag flown at half-mast?
A: The flag is flown at half-mast as a sign of mourning or respect.
Q: When is the flag flown at half-mast for the death of a government official?
A: The flag is flown at half-mast on the day of death and the following day for certain high-ranking government officials, such as the President, Vice President, and members of the Supreme Court.
Q: When is the flag flown at half-mast for the death of a military member?
A: The flag is flown at half-mast on the day of death and the following day for any member of the Armed Forces who dies while on active duty.
Q: How do I properly fly the flag at half-mast?
A: To properly fly the flag at half-mast, hoist the flag to the top of the staff, then lower it to half-staff. The bottom of the flag should be about two-thirds of the way down the staff.
Q: When should I return the flag to full-staff?
A: The flag should be returned to full-staff at sunset on the day following the event for which it was flown at half-mast.
Conclusion
The American flag is a symbol of our nation’s pride, unity, and sacrifice. When it is flown at half-mast, it is a reminder of the men and women who have died in service to our country. It is important to observe proper etiquette when the flag is flown at half-mast, and
