Why Are Flags at Half-Staff Today?

In U.S. usage, “half-staff” is the term for a flag on land. “Half-mast” is traditionally used for a flag on a ship or at a naval station. People often use both phrases for the same lowered display.

A presidential order sets the national federal status and names the locations it covers. A governor can also issue a separate order within one state, so the state answer can differ from the federal answer.

Use the end time in the active proclamation. Some statutory mourning periods last a set number of days, while special orders may last until sunset, interment, or another time named by the issuing authority.

Normal outdoor display is from sunrise to sunset. The flag may remain displayed after dark when it is properly illuminated; the active order still determines whether its position should be half-staff or full-staff.

A fixed angled staff cannot create a true half-staff position. Check the issuing authority or your organization’s policy before using a mourning ribbon or another alternative display.