The flag at half-mast is a sign of mourning and respect for someone who has died. The United States flag flies at half-staff or at half-mast when the nation or a state is in mourning. The president, a state governor, or the mayor of the District of Columbia can order flags to fly at half-staff. Most often, it marks the death of a government official, military member, or first responder or a national tragedy.
For example, on May 7th, 2023, Governor Kristi Noem ordered that flags be flown at half-staff at the State Capitol from sunrise until sunset in honor of former State Representative Marie C. Ingalls.
