Other Definitions
half mast (dict)
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Half MastHalf mast, or half staff, describes the act of flying a flag approximately halfway up a flagpole (though anywhere from one-third to two-thirds of the way up the flagpole is acceptable). This is done in many countries as a symbol of respect, mourning, or distress. In order to properly prepare a flag for half mast, it must be raised to a top, then lowered to the half-way position; when the flag is to be taken down, it is first raised to the top, then lowered. Some examples of when flags are to be flown at half staff: - In the United States:
- For thirty days after the death of a current or former President.
- For ten days after the death of a current or former Vice-President, Chief Justice, or Speaker of the House of Representatives.
- Until 12:00pm on Memorial Day
- On special order by the President or State Governor (some examples include for remembrence of the 9/11 attacks and the Indian Ocean tsunami).
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