The American Flag, when flown at half-staff, should be first hoisted to the peak for an instant and then lowered to the half-staff position. The flag should be again raised to the peak before it is lowered prior to sunset.

On Memorial Day (the last Monday in May), the flag should be displayed at half-staff until noon only, then raised to the top of the staff.

On the following days, the flag should be flown at half-staff for the entire day:

National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day (Dec. 7)
Peace Officers Memorial Day (May 15)
Patriot Day (Sept. 11)
First Sunday of Fire Prevention Week (usually first Sunday in October)

By order of the President; the flag shall be flown at half-staff upon the death of principal figures of the United States government and the Governor of a state, territory, or possession; as a mark of respect to their memory.

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