History-Reference
Explore the history behind the flags we display and find practical guidance for displaying them with care. Choose a resource below for your question or display setup.
Before you lower your flag
A historical notice is not a current instruction. Check the issuing authority, applicable location and effective dates before acting on a half-staff notice. The guides below explain display practices; the presidential archive documents past notices.
Flag display & remembrance
How to fly your flag at half-staff
Start here for guidance on lowering and displaying a flag at half-staff.
blog posted Mar 28th 2023
How to Honor a Fallen Hero When Your Flag Can't Fly at Half-Staff
Explore ways to honor a fallen hero when your display does not allow the flag to be lowered.
blog post Mar 28th 2023
Flying the American Flag at Half-Mast: A Comprehensive Guide
Read the broader guide to half-mast display and this gesture of remembrance.
blog post Sep 9th 2023
Customary Dates to Fly Half-Staff: A Comprehensive Guide
Research recurring observances, then check the instructions that apply to your year and location.
blog post Sept 9th 2023
Presidential history
HISTORICAL REFERENCE
Presidential Half-Staff Archive
Explore historical presidential half-staff notices by president and year, with links to published articles and available official sources. This growing reference collection covers past notices; it is not today's flag status.
State milestones & everyday flag care
List of State Birthdays
Find statehood anniversaries and explore the history behind the dates.
blog posted Jan 12th 2020
How long should a flag last?
Read about flag longevity before deciding when to replace the flag in your display.
blog posted Jan 30th 2023
FORTISVEX is an independent publisher and retailer, not a government issuing authority. Use official notices to confirm current flag instructions.