The Star-Spangled Banner continues to fly high.
In keeping with tradition, flags are once again being flown at half-staff on Memorial Day, which falls on May 25th this year.
This annual event pays tribute to U.S. soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice, and it takes place in every state—from Hawaii to Texas, from Georgia to New York. In New York, POW/MIA flags are also set to fly over state buildings from sunrise to sunset on Monday.
Yet, it’s noticeable that some well-intentioned citizens overlook the significance of this tradition, leaving the flag at full height throughout the day.
“People miss the importance of this intentional change,” explains Aaron Bacon, program manager for the American Legion, in comments to USA Today.
Memorial Day, initially called Decoration Day, traces its roots back to 1868, following the Civil War, and became an official national holiday only 55 years ago. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Congress decided that official observances would be held on the last Monday of May starting in 1971.
In a radio address from 1992, President George H.W. Bush highlighted the ongoing significance of this holiday.
“On this day, it’s essential that we share the stories of those who died defending freedom. We must do this because families who have lost loved ones need to know that a grateful nation remembers them,” he asserted. “We must pass these stories down so future generations can grasp what our lives might look like without their sacrifices.”
Traditionally, the American flag is flown at half-staff from sunrise to noon on this day as a memorial. After that, it’s raised to full staff again.
The half-staff position represents the nation’s remembrance of those lost in battle, while raising it to full staff signifies ongoing commitment and resilience.
“Flashing the flags at half-staff indicates mourning and acknowledges our collective sorrow and gratitude for those who sacrificed so much,” notes Colorado-based Custom Flag Company. “The transition to full staff at noon is a powerful moment. The morning is reserved for remembering those who fell, while the afternoon symbolizes the living.”
“Raising the flag indicates that our nation is moving forward, upholding the freedoms and values that our service members fought to protect,” adds Bacon, emphasizing the tradition’s importance. “It reflects the sacrifice and resilience of our country and those we honor.”
Besides Memorial Day, flags also fly at half-staff on five other significant occasions:
- Peace Officers Day: May 15th
- Korean War Veterans Armistice Day: July 27th
- Patriot Day: September 11th
- Pearl Harbor Day: December 7th
- As directed by the President during a mourning period following the death of a notable public figure or national tragedy.
Regardless of the situation, the public is encouraged to adhere to these long-standing traditions.
“The flag is not merely decorative,” Bacon reminds us. “It stands for those who sacrificed their lives for our freedoms and their families.”
