Flags in the United States are flown at half-staff as a sign of mourning and respect. While the Texas flag is currently at full-staff, this article aims to provide information regarding the reasons flags are lowered and the proper protocol for displaying the flag at half-staff. Presidential proclamations or state governor orders typically determine when flags should be lowered. Common reasons include the death of a prominent government official, a national tragedy, or a day of remembrance.
Reasons for Half-Staff Flag Displays
Half-staff flag displays mark periods of mourning and remembrance. These periods can be declared nationally by the President or locally by a state Governor. While specific reasons for lowering the flag vary, they generally fall under the following categories:
- Death of a Government Official: The death of a current or former President, Vice President, Supreme Court Justice, member of Congress, or other high-ranking official often leads to a half-staff proclamation.
- National Tragedies: Events like terrorist attacks, natural disasters, or mass shootings may prompt a period of national mourning signified by flags at half-staff.
- Days of Remembrance: Certain days, such as Memorial Day or Patriot Day, are designated for remembering fallen soldiers and victims of tragedy, often observed with flags at half-staff.
- State-Specific Events: Governors may order flags lowered within their state to honor fallen state officials, first responders, or victims of state-specific tragedies.
Proper Protocol for Displaying the Flag at Half-Staff
The Texas Government Code, Chapter 3100, outlines specific guidelines for displaying the Texas flag. Although the code doesn’t directly address half-staff procedures for the U.S. flag, customary practice aligns with federal guidelines. Key protocols include:
- Raising to Full-Staff First: Before lowering a flag to half-staff, it should first be raised briskly to the peak of the staff. This symbolizes respect before lowering it to the half-staff position.
- Half-Staff Position: On a pole with a single flag, the half-staff position is one-half the distance between the top and bottom of the staff.
- Duration of Half-Staff: The duration for which flags remain at half-staff varies depending on the event and the proclamation or order. Pay attention to official announcements to determine the appropriate timeframe.
- Other Flags in a Display: When multiple flags are displayed, such as the six historical flags of Texas, it is generally recommended that only the U.S. and Texas flags be lowered to half-staff. Other flags should be removed entirely during the period of mourning.
Respecting the Flag
Displaying the flag at half-staff is a powerful symbol of unity and respect during times of national or state mourning. Understanding the reasons for lowering the flag and adhering to the proper protocol ensures this symbol is honored appropriately. For detailed information on Texas flag display guidelines, consult the Texas Government Code Chapter 3100.
