When and Why America Lowers Its Flag

Have you ever wondered which holidays are half-staff holidays? In the United States, few symbols carry the weight, respect, and shared meaning of the American flag. It’s more than fabric and thread. It’s the emblem of our nation’s values, sacrifices, and collective identity.

But not everyone knows when or why the flag is lowered. Many assume half-staff observances occur only after the death of a national leader or during major tragedies. In reality, the United States has several designated half-staff holidays—days set aside to honor fallen service members, support victims of national events, or remember those who sacrificed their lives for our country. As part of our commitment to flag etiquette, education, and American tradition, we’re taking a closer look at these important observances.

What Half-Staff Means

Flying the flag at half-staff—positioned halfway down the pole—signals national mourning. It is a time for Americans to pause, reflect, and honor the individuals whose lives shaped our freedoms and security. The president of the United States or a state governor may order half-staff observances, and federal laws outline when and how they must be followed.

Annual Half-Staff Observances

While half-staff proclamations may be issued at any time in response to national tragedies, the U.S. also recognizes several standing annual days where flags are lowered across the country.

• Peace Officers Memorial Day – May 15
  Each year, the flag is lowered to honor federal, state, and local peace officers who lost their lives in the line of duty. Observed during National Police Week, this day pays tribute to the courage and dedication of those who protect our communities every day.
  
  
• Patriot Day – September 11
  On Patriot Day, the nation remembers the victims of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. Flags are flown at half-staff from sunrise to sunset, and Americans observe a moment of silence beginning at 8:46 a.m.—the time the first plane struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center.
  
  
• National Firefighters Memorial Day – First Sunday in October
  To honor fallen firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice while protecting life and property, flags are flown at half-staff for the day. This solemn observance highlights the bravery and selflessness of those who run toward danger rather than away from it.
  
  
• Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day – December 7
  Flags are lowered in remembrance of the lives lost in the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor—a pivotal moment that changed the course of history and moved the United States into World War II. This day reminds us of the resilience and sacrifice of the Greatest Generation.
  
  
• Memorial Day: A Special Exception
  Unlike most half-staff observances, Memorial Day has a unique flag protocol. On this day, the American flag is flown at half-staff only until noon, then raised briskly to the top for the remainder of the day. The half-staff period honors fallen service members. Raising the flag symbolizes that their sacrifice inspires the living to continue the fight for liberty. This dual-position tradition is exclusive to Memorial Day and reflects the holiday’s deeper layers of meaning.

Who Can Mandate a Half-Staff Display?

Only two authorities may issue half-staff directives:

• The President of the United States
• State Governors, for deaths of state figures or regional observances

When a presidential proclamation is issued, all federal agencies, military bases, and public institutions must comply. Private individuals and organizations are encouraged—but not required—to follow the order.

Why Half-Staff Holidays Matter

These observances are reminders of the sacrifices that secure our freedoms. They connect us to history and to each other, offering moments of unity in an often divided world. Flying the flag at half-staff isn’t just a formality—it’s a national gesture of gratitude and remembrance. We believe that honoring these traditions strengthens our shared American spirit. By understanding when and why we lower the flag, we uphold the respect it deserves and make sure its message continues to inspire future generations. When the American flag flies at half-staff, it sends a message felt nationwide. It’s a gesture of mourning, remembrance, and unity.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I know when a half-staff order has been issued?
   The White House and state governments release official proclamations when the flag should be lowered. Many organizations—like U.S. Flags—also provide alerts, email notifications, and calendar reminders to help citizens stay informed.
   
   
2. How long should the flag stay at half-staff after the death of a notable individual?
   
   It depends on the person’s role:
   
   • President or former president: 30 days
   • Vice President, Chief Justice, and Speaker of the House: 10 days
   • Governors and prominent state officials: Determined by state order
   
   These durations are established by the U.S. Flag Code or state directives.
   
   
3. Can I fly other flags below the U.S. flag when it is at half-staff?
   Yes. All subordinate flags—such as state, military, or organizational flags—should also be lowered to half-staff below the U.S. flag. If they cannot be lowered, they should be removed for the duration of the half-staff period. "