In times of crisis, symbols of mourning and respect can be incredibly powerful. After all, the primary function of a flag is to represent a nation, and it’s only fitting that it should be seen in moments of sorrow in order to honor and demonstrate respect. This is why, in Arkansas, the flags have been lowered to half-staff on multiple occasions throughout the years.
When a flag is flown at half-staff, it indicates a moment of sadness, such as in the event of a national tragedy or the loss of an important person. In Arkansas, the flags have been flown at half-staff on several occasions, most recently following the death of former President George H.W. Bush in 2018. Governors of states and territories also have the power to order the flags to half-staff in order to honor prominent figures or important events within their state. For instance, in 2019, Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson ordered the flags to be lowered in honor of the victims of the mass shooting in El Paso, Texas.
More recently, in 2021, Arkansas Governor Hutchinson has ordered the flags to be flown at half-staff in the state in honor of the police officers who died in the line of duty after responding to calls of unrest in Little Rock. This order was issued to honor the service of those police officers and to show respect for the families they left behind. Additionally, the governor also ordered the flags to be lowered again just a few months later in honor of the 500,000 Americans who have died due to COVID-19. This action was taken to show respect for all of the individuals and families who have been affected by this deadly virus.
The flags in Arkansas have been flown at half-staff in order to commemorate a number of events—some celebratory, some somber. In each instance, the flags have served as a symbol of reverence and respect towards those who have passed away, as well as a remembrance of important moments and values throughout the state. They stand as a reminder of the importance of honoring those who have given their lives to make our world a better place.
What event has caused the flags to be at half staff in Arkansas?
The death of Robert M. Farrar, the 41st governor of Arkansas from 1967 to 1971, has caused the flags to be flown at half-staff in the state of Arkansas. Governor Farrar passed away on July 29, 2019, at the age of 93, after a long and distinguished career of public service.
Governor Farrar was born in Little Rock in 1925, and received his education at the University of Arkansas and Georgetown University Law Center. After his school days, Farrar began a career in politics by serving in the Arkansas Senate, and later as the state’s Attorney General. Following two successful campaigns, Farrar was elected Governor of Arkansas in 1967, becoming the youngest person to serve in that position at the time.
During his tenure, Governor Farrar was known for leading the way in ensuring the state progressed and prospered. He created new initiatives to bridge Arkansas’s educational gap, advancements in civil rights and public transportation, as well as addressed various public health issues. Governor Farrar also steered Arkansas toward a more economically diverse state by investing in industries such as poultry and glass manufacturing which greatly benefited the state’s economic climate and created jobs for many of its citizens.
Although Governor Farrar was a strong advocate for economic development, he also sought to diversify the state's economic portfolio; making sure to protect Arkansas’s natural beauty and rural way of life. He initiated several conservation efforts such as the Ozark Highlands Trail and oversaw the cleanup of the former Cargill Meat Packing Plant in Fort Smith. Governor Farrar's tenure was marked by numerous improvements and highlighted by the discovery of its first commercial oil well in 1971.
Governor Farrar was also respected and admired by his peers, as evidenced by his being selected President of the Southern Governors' Association and Chairman of the Democratic National Committee. In addition, he capped of his career by serving a chair of the Governor's Commission for Higher Education.
The passing of Governor Farrar has left an indelible mark on the state of Arkansas. His dedication and commitment to making the state a better place for all its citizens are remembered today as flags fly at half-staff in his honor. He leaves behind a legacy of service and pride to all those who call Arkansas home. The existence of this legacy ensures the legacy of the late Governor Robert M. Farrar will
How long will the flags remain at half staff in Arkansas?
In Arkansas, the flags at half staff are lowered to honour, memorialize, and show respect for the individuals who have passed away. The exact amount of time that the flags remain at half staff depends on the person, their service, and the way of the passing. Several laws and policies within the state provide guidance as to when and how long the flags should remain at half staff.
At the state level, the Governor of Arkansas generally issues a proclamation when flags should be flown at half staff. That proclamation will state the length of time for which the flags should be flown, typically for three or five days. When the individual is a member of the military, a state or county elected official, or has passed away due to armed forces related activities, the flags usually remain at half staff for the duration of the time in the proclamation.
At the federal level, the President of the United States may issue a proclamation to fly flags or lowering them to half staff. The flags shall remain at the lower position for a designated period of time, usually for 30 days. The President may also order that the flags remain at half staff for the length of the funeral services, if the services are provided on federal property.
When the flags remain at half staff on occasion of a passing at the state level, the flags may also be raised to full staff during the day to allow other important announcements or recognitions. For example, the flags are lowered on Memorial Day and raised back to full staff during the day to allow for the moment of national observance or recognition of missing or dead service members to occur.
When flags are lowered for a state or national tragedy, the U.S. Flag Code does not dictate how long the flags should remain at half staff. Each location is encouraged to fly flags at half staff until an appropriate length of time has passed. In Arkansas, many locations fly their flags at half staff for no less than three days and often up to five days.
Flags flown at half staff remain at the closest point to the ground that they can while still remaining open to the sky. There is no particular time of day that the flags must be lowered to half staff, although many sites lower the flags at sunrise and return them to full staff at sunset. However, this is by no means required as there is no specific rule.
No matter how long the flags remain at half staff in Arkansas, the actions of lowering and raising the flags
What is the significance of the flags being at half staff in Arkansas?
The significance of flags flying at half-staff in Arkansas can be traced back to several historic events, beginning with the state's involvement in the Civil War. The custom of lowering a flag to half-staff originated around the same time, as a sign of mourning and respect. To this day, flags are lowered statewide when the nation is in a period of bereavement or national tragedy, in order to honor those who have been lost.
In Arkansas, half-mast flags are frequently seen in recollection and remembrance of many significant events throughout the state's history. This includes individuals who have played an instrumental role in the state's development, as well as state and national holidays and memorials that are dedicated to fallen citizens or soldiers.
In 1840, the first general order was issued to lower flags to half-mast in distinction of the honor to renowned military figures and other important political and civil leaders. In Arkansas specifically, flags are often lowered to half staff to memorialize the state’s veterans who have died in the line of duty, to recognize national holidays like Memorial Day and Flag Day, and to mourn tragic events, such as the death of former Presidents. One notable example of flags flown at half staff in Arkansas was in response to the Oklahoma City bombing in 1995.
In addition to showing respect and mourning, the act of lowering flags to half staff is an integral way of displaying patriotism and pride. Flying the flag at half staff serves as a visual reminder to locals that they are part of a larger, unified community and that, no matter the occasion, they share common beliefs and values.
In conclusion, the significance of flying flags at half staff in Arkansas is clear. It serves not only as an honor and show of respect for individuals and events that have shaped the state, but also as a symbol of the state’s national and regional pride. To many, it is a reminder of Arkansas’s role in our nation’s history and the importance of remembering those who have gone before us in service, honor, and sacrifice.
Who ordered the flags to be at half staff in Arkansas?
On March 28th, 2021, Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson ordered all state flags fly at half-staff on the day of former Governor Frank White’s death. White was one of the first governors of the state of Arkansas and served from 1981 to 1983. While in office, White worked to bring in businesses and encourage economic growth in Arkansas.
White was born in El Paso, Texas in 1924. His family moved to Arkansas when he was 12, and White attended high school in Fort Smith. White married Eleanor Brewer in 1947 and together they had two children, a son and a daughter. After high school, White joined the United States Army and served in WWII before attending the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville.
White worked at the family business, Budget Office Machines in Pine Bluff, where he developed financial insights and business practices that helped him become an effective public servant. After serving on the state legislature for eight years, he was elected governor in 1981.
As governor, White had significant accomplishments. During his tenure, he successfully sought and received the state’s highest tax cut in its history, as well as additional income and excise tax cuts. White labeled his slogan “Let’s Make Arkansas The Land Of Opportunity” and strived to make Arkansas an attractive place to do business. He worked hard to bring businesses to Arkansas, passing a law to give economic incentives to businesses. He encouraged job growth and increased wages, bringing more money into the state economy. He also improved education, establishing a literacy task force to increase student performance, and initiated an energy savings plan to ensure low energy costs. White also worked to improve Arkansas’ transportation infrastructure by modernizing interstate highways and expanding the Arkansas State Highway system.
White’s time as governor was cut short due to the state constitution’s term-limit, but his impact on Arkansas was profound. To honor the former governor, Governor Hutchinson ordered the flags to be lowered to half-staff. The public was invited to attend a memorial service in honor of White. Flags were flown at half-staff on the day of White’s death, from sunrise to sunset. As a sign of respect, Governor Hutchinson invited the people of Arkansas to show the same courtesy and respect for White by lowering their personal flags to half-staff.
The legacy of Frank White’s service and accomplishments in Arkansas will live on for generations. He will be remembered
What is the protocol for lowering the flags to half staff in Arkansas?
In Arkansas, the protocol for lowering the flags to half staff is similar to that of other states. When the United States or Arkansas flags must be lowered to half staff, the Governor or President will usually issue the order. Generally, the flags should be lowered promptly at dawn of the day of the order and remain at half staff until sunset of the same day. The Governor may extend the time they are flown at half staff for a period of time ranging from a few days to a month, depending on the occasion.
When the President issues an order for the United States Flag to be flown at half staff, the Arkansas Flag must also be lowered to half staff. It is common for the flags to be lowered in memory of a government official, a nation's leader, or a citizen who has made an influential impact. Additionally, flags may also be lowered in remembrance of a tragedy, such as a natural disaster or act of terrorism.
When the Governor issues an order to fly the Arkansas flag at half staff, the state flag must be suspended aloft on its pole in the normal manner, pointing towards the sky. It is then lowered slowly to the half staff position, where it should remain until sunset. Again, if the Governor has extended the time the flags are kept at half staff, they must remain at half staff until the extended time has passed.
It is important to note that any state flag that is used to represent Arkansas must be lowered if the United States Flag is flown at half staff. When this happens, the Arkansas Flag is not raised to full height to match the United States Flag, as it should remain at half staff in honor of the occasion. Agriculture groups that are meeting in the state of Arkansas can also fly the Arkansas flag at half staff if the range Boss or Master has issued the order and it is within the specified beginning and ending times.
When lowering and raising the flags to half staff or full staff, everyone should remember that the flags should be treated with respect. They should always be lowered and raised slowly and gently, and never be allowed to touch the ground. Respect for the flags at all times is the best way to honor their meaning.
How often are the flags lowered to half staff in Arkansas?
Flags are typically flown at half staff in Arkansas under the statutes of the United States Code and the laws of the state of Arkansas. In general, state law provides that the U.S. Flag should be flown at half staff from sunrise to sunset on designated holidays, in memory of deceased elected and appointed officials and members of the armed services, and upon the death of a prominent figure of the state or nation.
Under the United States Flag Code, the U.S. Flag should be lowered to half staff at all federal buildings, military installations, and embassies in Arkansas, as well as on all Arkansas state property, on Memorial Day, Patriot Day, Peace Officers Memorial Day, POW/MIA Recognition Day, and on the days of the deaths of former Presidents, present and former governors and state officials, current and former members of the U.S. Congress, and other individuals of special prominence as designated by the Governor. Arkansas flags should be lowered to honor those killed in terrorist attacks, military conflicts involving the United States, and those killed in the line of duty.
In addition, any member of the armed forces from Arkansas killed in combat is an additional cause for lowering flags to half staff. This includes members of the armed forces currently serving and retirees, whether killed in the line of duty or as a result of any other cause. U.S. flags should also be lowered on the day of the service member’s interment and again on the anniversary of the service member’s death.
The Governor of Arkansas may also issue orders to lower flags to half staff to honor a prominent public figure or to mourn the death of a prominent figure of the state or nation, including members of the Interment services, members of the clergy, civil officers of the State and Nation, and citizens.
The Governor of Arkansas can also order flags at all state facilities, buildings, and grounds to be lowered to half-staff when the nation is in a period of national mourning, such as after the death of a sitting President. As with all of the reasons for lowering flags to half staff, the Governor's orders must be issued within a timely manner in order for the flags to be properly honored.
Flags should always be raised back up to full staff at the conclusion of the appropriate period of mourning for those individuals being represented by a lowered flag. Flies should be raised on the day of the memorial service, on the day following
What is the procedure for raising the flags to full staff in Arkansas?
Raising the flags to full staff in Arkansas is a procedure that must be followed with great care and respect. Flying the State and United States flags at full staff is a way of showing honor, respect, and support for the people living in the state of Arkansas. The following steps outline proper flag etiquette for raising the Arkansas flags to full staff:
Step 1: Raise the flags to half-staff. In some cases, it is necessary to fly the flags at half-staff. For example, when a public official passes away, both flags may be flown at half-staff in memory of their service to the state.
Step 2: Determine the designated time when the flags should be raised to full-staff. This is often done according to the sun or based on a set schedule. During daylight savings time, the flags should be raised at local sunrise, then lowered at local sunset. When not observing daylight savings time, flags should be raised at 7:00 AM and lowered at 6:00 PM.
Step 3: Prepare for raising the flags. This includes ensuring that a suitable pole and flagpoles are in place, and checking to make certain that the flags are in good condition. All red stripes should face the top, and the star field of the American flag should face the viewer’s left.
Step 4: Respectfully raise the flags at full-staff. A dignified and slow manner should be used while raising the flags. When the flag is completely unfurled and taut against the pole, the flag is now officially at full-staff.
Step 5: Lower the flags at the appropriate time. This is typically at local sunset, or 6:00 PM during the winter months. When lowering the flags, they should be slowly and respectfully lowered completely, never to be allowed to touch the ground.
Rising the flags to full-staff in Arkansas is an important part of showing respect and honor to the state. Proper flag etiquette must be followed at all times, especially when raising the flags to full staff. When observing the procedure for raising the flags to full staff in Arkansas, it is important to stay alert and vigilant to ensure that the flags are properly displayed in the correct way at all times.
Are there any exceptions to the rule of lowering the flags to half staff in Arkansas?
As a state, Arkansas has a set of laws and regulations regarding the traditions and customs associated with lowering flags. Among these regulations is the requirement to lower all flags, both state and national, to half-staff on certain occasions. On those occasions, citizens of the state must pay respects to those who have suffered loss and honor those who have served their communities and nation.
However, Arkansas does provide exceptions to this rule. An exception can be made for special events, such as honoring contributions made by a particular individual or celebrating a notable achievement. For example, if a famous Arkansas resident has achieved something remarkable and the Governor elects to publicly acknowledge their accomplishment, the flags of the state can be raised to full staff. This is a way of showing appreciation and celebrating the individual’s success or contribution.
Furthermore, there are certain holidays and dates of significance where flags may not be lowered to half-staff. These include federal holidays such as Memorial Day, Independence Day, Veteran’s Day, and Labor Day, as well as state-specific holidays and dates of importance, such as Arkansas Flag Day or Confederate Memorial Day. On these days, flags should be flown at full-staff in order to show respect and pay tribute to those who have served and sacrificed for the state.
Finally, Arkansas also recognizes the power of symbols of patriotism and respect. This is why flags may be lowered on special occasions, such as for a presidential inauguration, a presidential funeral, or for a military service. On these occasions, flags are occasionally kept at full-staff as a sign of respect, an acknowledgement of the gravity of the event, and out of appreciation for those who have served their country.
Overall, Arkansas law is quite specific about lowering flags to half-staff when appropriate, providing an exception for special events, and keeping flags raised on certain holidays and dates. However, exceptions are made in cases where the significance of a moment, or the work of an individual, warrants full-staff recognition and respect as a symbol of patriotism.
What is the meaning behind the flags being at half staff in Arkansas?
The American flag is a representation of freedom, pride, and unity. It stands for the citizens of the United States and every American citizen that does their duty in protecting and upholding the law. Every single time the American flag flies high and proud, it speaks of freedom and peace that all American citizens need to spread.
However, there are moments when the American flag is flying at half staff. When this happens in Arkansas, it symbolizes something much deeper and profound. The half staff display of the flag is a recognition of a significant event or the loss of an important person in Arkansas or the entire United States. This symbol of respect is a way to honor special occasions, events, or people deserving of being remembered and cherished.
The usual occasion to fly the flag at half staff in Arkansas is when it's thirty days after a late President's death. This was the case with the late President Gerald Ford when the nation lowered their flags to honor him in 2007. In addition to this, state flags in Arkansas will be flown at half staff on Memorial Day, the fourth Thursday in April, to honor those citizens of Arkansas who have served their country by sacrificing their lives in wars and military operations. On such solemn days, the flags in Arkansas will remain lowered to half staff until noon. This act of remembrance is a way of honoring the brave men and women from Arkansas who served their country with honor, holding the flag high during times of war and peace.
As for the state of Arkansas, it also lowers its flags on certain state occasions, such as the demise of Lawmakers, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, or Secretary of State. This is done as a tribute and to pay respect to the public officials who served the state of Arkansas. Moreover, in circumstances of extreme tragedies, the President may ask that all flags throughout the nation including Arkansas be flown at half staff. In June of 2015, President Barack Obama asked all flags in the United States to be flown at half staff from sunrise to sunset in order to honor the victims of a shooting that had occurred in a church in Charleston, South Carolina.
Thus, any time the American flag or Arkansas state flag is flown at half staff in Arkansas, citizens should consider it a moment of reverence and respect for the dearly departed. From serving personnel in the military, to public officials, to individuals who made significant contributions to the development of Arkansas and the United States—every time the flags fly at half staff, it is
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are the flags at half staff today?
Governor Asa Hutchinson has directed the United States flag and the state flag of Arkansas to fly at half-staff from July 19-22, 2022 to honor Police Officer Vincent Parks of the Jonesboro Police Department.
Is it OK to fly the flag at half-staff all year long?
Yes, it is perfectly acceptable to fly the flag at half-staff continuously from January to December.
Why is the Texas flag at half-staff in Eastland County?
Governor Abbott has allowed U.S. & Texas flags in Eastland County to fly at half-staff for Deputy Barbara Fenley who passed away suddenly earlier this year.
When should you fly the American flag at half staff?
As a general rule, it is best to fly the flag at half mast during official memorial services and occasions honoring deceased military members or veterans. The flag should also be flown at half staff on days of national mourning.
When to fly the flag at half-staff in 2021?
Flag should be flown at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Memorial Day Monday May 29, President's Day February 19, Labor Day September 3, Veterans Day November 11, Thanksgiving Day December 25 and Christmas Eve December 24.
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