Governor Polis has ordered flags to be lowered to half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Tuesday, July 16, to honor slain Pennsylvania Volunteer Firefighter Chief Corey Comperatore. Comperatore died protecting his family during the failed assassination attempt, opens a new window against former President Trump at President Trump's rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday, July 13.
Governor Polis released the following statement.
“My thoughts are with hero Corey Comperatore’s family and friends during this terrible time. There are no words that can take away the pain of this moment, but together we can help honor his life and the man that he was. That’s why I’m directing that flags be lowered in Colorado,” said Governor Jared Polis. “The last few days have been traumatic for all Americans, and we unite to mourn the tragic loss of Corey Comperatore.”
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Brief History
The tradition of flying a flag at half-staff began in the 17th century. Sometimes you'll hear "half-mast" but that is reserved for usage aboard a ship. The president can issue an executive order for the flag to be flown at half-staff, often upon the death of a notable figure or because of a tragic event. When such an order is issued, all government buildings, military bases, schools and offices are to lower their flags half-staff.
Why are other flags flown at half-staff? Because no flag can be placed above the flag of the United States. Governors of U.S. states and territories can also order U.S. and state flags to be flown at half-staff, often when a member of the armed forces dies in active duty or when a current or former state official dies.
Learn more about the flag and Flag Day, a day that celebrates that red, white and blue.
Flag Etiquette
Read about flag code and etiquette, opens a new window.
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