Misunderstandings Surrounding the Display of Non-US Flags at Half-Staff

A common misconception among flag enthusiasts and the general public is that no flag can fly higher than the United States flag. In reality, proper flag etiquette involves a clear hierarchy based on national rank and religious significance. This article aims to clarify these misunderstandings and provide a comprehensive guide to flying flags appropriately, particularly with regard to the display of non-US flags at half-staff.

Understanding Flag Hierarchy

Flags are not flown at random heights; they are positioned according to their order of importance. A higher-order flag flies higher than a lower-order flag. In most cases, national flags fly higher than state flags, acknowledging the sovereignty and national significance of each. When flown on the same staff, the subordinate flag is placed below the superior flag. If flown on separate staffs, the subordinate flag can be flown at the same height or on a shorter staff, which may be slightly shorter by one full flag height.

Religious flags hold a unique position and may be flown higher than national flags, including the flag of the United States. While they are often flown at equal height on separate staffs, this is a recognition of the sovereignty of religious orders over the State, not the state (subdivision of a nation) as commonly misconstrued.

Flags of Sovereign Nations

When multiple flags of sovereign nations are flown, each flag should be on its own staff. The home country's flag (the "host" nation) is typically flown on the right as observed (stage right). In the United States, for instance, the US flag is always flown on the right when multiple flags are displayed. If you are displaying flags in Canada, the Canadian flag will be on the right.

When flying the US flag at half-staff, all other flags in the same display should also be flown at half-staff or lower. The US flag should never be placed in a subservient position. When flying multiple flags at half-staff, the national flag must be raised first and lowered last. The other flags in the display would not be raised to the top, as that would place them in a superior position to the national flag.

Half-Staff Procedures

Procedure for displaying a flag at half-staff is straightforward but requires attention to detail. First, the flag is raised to the peak of the staff. Then, it is lowered to the halfway point. When the flag is lowered, it is first raised again to the top before being hauled down or removed. This ritual ensures that the flag always remains respected.

The practice of lowering the flag to half-staff is suspensive, not commemorative. It is a time of mourning and respect, and it should be celebrated for its importance in public life. For example, in the United States, the flag is only flown at half-staff until noon on Memorial Day. At noon, it is raised to full staff for the remainder of the day to symbolize renewed patriotism and national pride.

Handling Gray Areas

The Flag Code, while exhaustive in many aspects, leaves some flexibility in how non-US flags are handled at half-staff. The code specifically addresses the treatment of the US flag but does not provide a definitive guide for other flags. The general principle is to maintain the sanctity of the US flag while respecting religious and cultural practices. When unsure, it is best to consult with local authorities or flag experts to ensure proper procedure.

In conclusion, flag display is a serious matter that requires adherence to specific protocols to honor the symbols of sovereignty, nationhood, and faith. By understanding and respecting these guidelines, we can ensure that our displays of flags are both accurate and respectful, free from the common misunderstandings that may arise.