June 07, 2004
June 7, 2004
LANSING – Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today directed that United States flags be flown at half-staff at all state buildings and facilities throughout the state of Michigan for 30 days, through Monday, July 5, 2004, as a mark of respect for former President Ronald W. Reagan.
While neither the President nor the Governor has ordered non-governmental entities and homeowners to fly the flag at half-staff, they are encouraged to do so.
"President Reagan transformed our nation’s psyche with his optimism and positive vision," Granholm said. "He was a strong leader who made a lasting mark on our nation’s history. He was gentle and kind, and every American can learn from his example."
Granholm directed the flags at half-staff to comply with the federal law that governs the position and display of the flag. Section 7 of Title 4 of the United States Code provides that, "The flag shall be flown at half-staff for 30 days from the death of the President or a former President." Because this provision of the flag law is not limited to federal facilities or governmental buildings, Michigan residents and non-governmental entities are also encouraged to observe federal law regarding the display of the United States flag.
When flown at half-staff or half-mast, the United States flag should be hoisted first to the peak for an instant and then lowered to the position one-half the distance between the top and bottom of the staff or mast. The flag should again be raised to the peak before it is lowered for the day. It is the universal custom to display the flag from sunrise to sunset. However, the flag may be displayed 24 hours a day if properly illuminated during the hours of darkness.
