What does the term "half-staff" or "half-mast" mean?
Q: What does the term "half-staff" or "half-mast" mean?
A: The term "half-staff" or "half-mast" refers to the act of displaying a flag at halfway up a flagpole or a ship's mast.
Q: Why is a flag flown at half-staff or half-mast?
A: A flag is flown at half-staff or half-mast as a symbol of respect, mourning, or distress, or a form of honor.
Q: Does the flag have to be flown exactly at the halfway point?
A: No, the flag does not always have to be flown at exactly the halfway point. Sometimes it is acceptable to have the "half-mast" flag at slightly lower or slightly higher than the middle of the flagpole or mast.
Q: What did "half-staff" originally mean?
A: Originally, "half-staff" meant that the flag had to be flown one flag-width from the top to allow for the "invisible flag of mourning" to be at the top.
Q: Is displaying a flag at half-staff or half-mast a common practice in many countries?
A: Yes, displaying a flag at half-staff or half-mast is a common practice in many countries.
Q: Can a flag be flown at half-staff or half-mast for any reason?
A: No, a flag can only be flown at half-staff or half-mast for specific reasons such as mourning, respect, distress or as a form of honor.
Q: How is half-staff or half-mast usually conveyed to the public?
A: Half-staff or half-mast is usually conveyed to the public through official announcements or proclamations by the government or other authorities.
