What do Americans call half-mast?
Half-mast (British, Canadian and Australian English) or half-staff (American English) refers to a flag flying below the summit of a ship mast, a pole on land, or a pole on a building. In many countries this is seen as a symbol of respect, mourning, distress, or, in some cases, a salute.
Is half-mast really half-mast?
The phrase half-mast means the same thing as half-staff. It refers to a flag flown below the top of a flagpole to indicate mourning. Half-mast, however, refers to flags on ships or naval bases. These are the only places where flags are flown on something called a mast.
What does it mean to put a flag at half-mast?
sign of respect or mourning
Display at half staff The flag is displayed at half-staff (half-mast in naval usage) as a sign of respect or mourning. Nationwide, this action is proclaimed by the president; state-wide or territory-wide, the proclamation is made by the governor.
What is it called when the flag is half way up?
The term “half-mast” refers to the position of a flag when it is halfway between the top and bottom of a flagpole. It can also be referred to as flying “half-staff.” The flag does not have to be exactly halfway in between the flagpole, but it should be far enough down the pole to fit another flag above it.
What is it called when the flag is being lowered at sunset?
Retreat has always been at sunset. The music for retreat dates back to the Crusades and was first used by the French Army. The American Army has used this bugle call since the Revolutionary War.
When can a flag be flown at half-mast?
The United States flag flies at half-staff (or half-mast) when the nation or a state is in mourning. The president, through a presidential proclamation, a state governor, or the mayor of the District of Columbia can order flags to fly at half-staff.
What is proper flag etiquette?
The flag should never be carried flat or horizontally, but always aloft and free. The flag should never be fastened, displayed, used, or stored so that it might be easily torn, soiled, or damaged in any way. The flag should never be used as covering for a ceiling. The flag should never have anything placed on it.