The flag is flown at half-mast (or half-staff) as a symbol of respect, mourning, distress, or sometimes as a salute. It is traditionally lowered below the top of the flagpole to signify collective sorrow or honor the memory of important figures or tragic events. The practice symbolizes a mark of respect during times of national mourning or significant loss, such as the death of notable leaders or victims of tragic events.
The flag is first raised to the top of the pole and then lowered to the half- mast position. When lowered at the end of the day, it is briefly raised again to the top before being fully lowered.
Thus, seeing a flag at half-mast indicates a period of mourning or respect being observed for a particular event or person.
