Why are flags at half-staff in South Carolina? What to know July 27

On Saturday, July 27, the flags at the State Capitol in South Carolina will be flying at half-staff. This symbolic act is not one done without considerable thought or reason, but in recognition and mourning of a well-respected individual who dedicated their life to service and significant contributions to the Palmetto State. This article will delve into why exactly the flags in South Carolina are at half-staff and what it signifies.

Honoring John W. Parris

Governor Henry McMaster has ordered the flags to be flown at half-staff in honor of John W. Parris. This decision has been made “in recognition of his extraordinary legacy and his countless years of service to the State of South Carolina”, as per the official press release. Parris was an outstanding figure in the realm of agriculture and conservation, mentoring numerous farmers and infusing innovation into the growth of the agricultural sector. He was also the Executive Director of the South Carolina Land Resources Commission.

The duration of the half-staff protocol

The flags in South Carolina will be flown at half-staff from Saturday July 27th’s sunrise until noon on that same day. This symbol of deep respect and mourning is a temporary implementation and is often only for a part of the day or a specific duration.

Where will the flag protocol be implemented?

As Governor McMaster ordered the flags to be at half-staff at the State Capitol, the federal government has requested that all buildings, including those of the political subdivisions of the state, follow a similar flag protocol on July 27.

Understanding the significance of flags flying at half-staff

For the uninitiated, flags flying at half-staff are a symbol of mourning declared either by a state governor, the president, or the mayor of the District of Columbia. Generally, the act signifies one of three possible events: the death of a government official, armed forces member or emergency first responder, a national tragedy, or in recognition of Memorial Day and other national days of remembrance.

There is a common misconception about the terminology of the flag protocol. The terms ‘half-mast’ and ‘half-staff’ are often used interchangeably, but they have distinctly different contexts. Traditionally, ‘half-mast’ is used when referring to flags on ships and at naval stations ashore. When it comes to other locations ashore, the correct term to use is ‘half-staff’.