Chuck Finkle, The U.S. Flag Code gives very specific information on flying the flag at half-staff. While the Code specifically cites principal figures of the government, governors, foreign official and dignitaries or former such officials, it does not provide for flying the flag at half-staff for just about everyone else, unless ordered by the President...HOWEVER...it has become common practice in the United States for local departments, officials, schools, businesses organizations and others to fly the flag at half-staff to mourn the loss of members or important figures of the oprganizations, etc. So to answer your question, McDonald's flying the flag at half-staff does not meet U.S. Flag Code rules and regulations, but is nonetheless a tradition that has been and will most likely continue.
I agree it would be nice if we could notify members when it is appropriate to fly the Flag at half-mast. I think for a former President it is 30 days to show proper respect. Please correct me if am wrong. Thanks.
When there are two flags (USA & State) displayed on a flag pole and there is direction to fly at half mast due to a past president passing away, where is the proper height to display the two flags on the pole?
Good news. You are correct about 30 days. I just checked the U.S. Flag Code (4 US Code 1) in Section 7 (m) stating the 30 days at half-staff for the death of a President or former President. Have a Happy New Year. Ray
Hello to the American Flag Forum Does the 30 days to display the flag at half staff begin on the day of death of a former President? Thanks, in advance, for the answer. howard bragdon
The US Flag Code says the flag will always be flown at half-staff under the following circumstances: Quote: The flag shall be flown at half-staff thirty days from the death of the President or a former President; ten days from the day of death of the Vice President, the Chief Justice or a retired Chief Justice of the United States, or the Speaker of the House of Representatives; from the day of death until interment of an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court, a Secretary of an executive or military department, a former Vice President, or the Governor of a State, territory, or possession; and on the day of death and the following day for a Member of Congress.
