THE NEXT FLAG HALF MAST IS:

FEDERAL

May 27: Memorial Day

In honor of those who lost their lives while defending our country

Honoring All Who Served

The next federal half staff

  • 00Days

Based on sunrise on the east coast

Flag Etiquette

Man demonstrating how to lower american flag at sunset

Lowering the Flag

  1. Evening Ritual: The flag is traditionally lowered at sunset. If it must be displayed at night, it should be illuminated.

  2. Ceremonial Lowering: When lowering the flag from half-staff, it is first hoisted to the peak for a moment and then lowered ceremoniously. This is to honor the nation before paying respect to the individual or event being commemorated.

  3. Handling: The flag should never touch the ground or any object beneath it. It should be received by waiting hands and arms or properly folded.

Raising the Flag

  1. Morning Ritual: The U.S. flag is traditionally raised at sunrise, though it can be raised at a convenient time in the morning. Ensure it’s done with respect and solemnity.

  2. Hoisting the Flag: When raising the flag, it should be briskly hoisted to the top of the flagpole before being lowered to the half-staff position. This gesture is a sign of respect and honor to the nation and those being commemorated.

  3. Position and Manner: The flag should be raised facing the east or the main direction of passage to ensure it is seen in its full glory. It should never be raised while bundled; it should unfurl freely as it is hoisted.

Demonstration on raising the american flag to full mast
Half-Staff Protocol

Protocol

  1. Significance: Flying the flag at half-staff is a sign of mourning or distress. It is a powerful symbol of respect, remembrance, or sorrow for a person or event.

  2. Duration and Occasion: The period during which the flag is flown at half-staff can vary. It might be from sunrise to sunset or for several days, depending on the occasion or directive from the President or state governors.

  3. Presidential Proclamation: The U.S. President can order the flag to be flown at half-staff nationwide in mourning of national figures or significant tragedies. State governors can also make similar proclamations within their jurisdictions.

Photo-realistic scene of men demonstrating how to honor the american flag
Photo realistic scene of men and women saluting the american flag

General Guidelines

    • Respect: The flag should be treated with the utmost respect at all times. It symbolizes the freedoms, ideals, and heritage of the United States.
    • Condition: Ensure the flag is in good condition. A tattered or soiled flag should be retired and replaced.
    • Storage: When not in use, the flag should be folded properly and stored in a dignified place.
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