Why are Flags At Half-staff in South Carolina?

Flags Lowered in Honor of John W. Parris

Greenville, South Carolina – On Saturday, July 27, residents of South Carolina noted a significant gesture of grief and respect as flags across the state were lowered to half-staff. Governor Henry McMaster ordered the symbolic lowering in honor of John W. Parris, whose long service and legacy to the state are held in high esteem.

According to a press release, Parris is being honored “in recognition of his extraordinary legacy and lifetime of service to the State of South Carolina, including as a conservationist, teacher of farmers young and old, leader of agricultural innovation, and Executive Director of the South Carolina Land Resources Commission.”

Flying Flags at Half-staff: The Duration and Locations

As a display of tribute, South Carolina flags were at half-staff from sunrise to sundown on that particular Saturday. Governor McMaster specified that the State Capitol building was amongst the locations where the flags would be flown at half-staff. In addition, he requested that all state buildings and buildings belonging to the state’s political subdivisions similarly lower their flags to half-staff.

Symbolic Meaning of Half-staff Flags

For those wondering why flags are flown at half-staff, Usa.gov provides some insight. The American flag is typically flown at half-staff when the nation or a state is in mourning. The authority to order flags to half-staff rests with the President, a state governor, or the Mayor of the District of Columbia. There are primarily three reasons why flags would be at half-staff:

• The passing of a government official, military personnel, or an emergency first responder.
• In the event of a national tragedy.
• On Memorial day and other national days of remembrance.

Half-staff or Half-mast?

One common question pertains to the use of the terms ‘half-mast’ and ‘half-staff’. As per previous reports, when at sea or naval stations, the term used is ‘half-mast’. However, on land and non-naval locations, ‘half-staff’ is the term commonly used to indicate lowered flags.

Conclusion

The act of lowering flags in South Carolina on July 27 was a fitting tribute to the extraordinary legacy left by Parris. His impact on the state significantly testifies to the importance of conservation, farming education, and agricultural innovation—a fitting tribute to an individual who dedicated his life to serving South Carolina.