Governor Polis ordered, opens a new window flags to half-staff in honor of Rep. Lois Landgraf, opens a new window who passed away on June 1, 2026. Rep. Landgraf served in the Colorado House of Representatives from 2013 to 2021, representing El Paso County. Flags are ordered to fly at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Saturday, August 15, the day of Rep. Langraf’s memorial.
“Lois Landgraf spent her life in service to Colorado, first in Fountain, then in the State Capitol, and always in her community. Her dedication to Coloradans, especially our veterans, left a lasting mark on El Paso County and our state. On Saturday, we lower our flags to honor her memory and the example she set for public service,” said Governor Polis.
A celebration of life will be held on August 15 at The Gathering Place at the Farm at 11141 Ridgeline Dr., Colorado Springs, CO 80921.
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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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