Why Are Wisconsin Flags At Half Mast Explanations Updates

Seeing the Wisconsin state flag flying at half-mast can prompt questions from residents, visitors, and media alike. Whether it’s a local observance or part of a national directive, the lowering of flags is a solemn gesture rooted in tradition, respect, and public mourning. Understanding why flags are lowered—and when—provides insight into civic values, leadership decisions, and moments of collective remembrance. This article explores the reasons behind Wisconsin flag-lowering ceremonies, outlines recent and historical examples, and explains how to stay informed about current flag status.

Understanding Flag Etiquette in Wisconsin

The display of the U.S. and Wisconsin state flags follows strict guidelines under both federal and state protocols. According to the U.S. Flag Code, flags may be flown at half-staff (or half-mast, when on naval vessels) to honor the death of government officials, military personnel, or during times of national tragedy. In Wisconsin, the authority to order flags lowered lies primarily with the Governor, who issues proclamations based on federal directives or state-specific events.

Wisconsin Statute §1.10 governs the proper display of the state flag and allows the Governor to issue orders for ceremonial observances, including periods of mourning. These proclamations are typically published through the Wisconsin Executive Secretary’s office and shared via official channels such as the governor.wi.gov website, press releases, and social media.

“Lowering the flag is more than a symbolic act—it reflects our shared grief and respect for those who have served, sacrificed, or suffered.” — Governor Tony Evers, 2023 Proclamation Statement

Common Reasons for Half-Mast Flags in Wisconsin

Flags in Wisconsin are lowered for several key reasons, ranging from national observances to state-level tragedies. The most frequent causes include:

• National mourning: Following the death of a sitting or former U.S. President, Vice President, Supreme Court Justice, or members of Congress.
• Law enforcement memorials: On National Peace Officers Memorial Day (May 15) and in response to line-of-duty deaths.
• Military honors: To commemorate fallen service members, especially those from Wisconsin units.
• State tragedies: Mass casualty events, natural disasters, or the passing of prominent state figures.
• 9/11 Remembrance: Annually on September 11, flags are lowered to honor victims of the terrorist attacks.

Tip: Check the Wisconsin Department of Administration’s website or follow @GovEvers on social media for real-time flag status updates.

Recent Examples of Wisconsin Flags at Half-Mast

In recent years, multiple events have prompted the Governor to issue flag-lowering proclamations. Here are notable instances that illustrate the range of circumstances:

January 2023 – Officer John Sarlo, Green Bay Police Department

Following the fatal shooting of Officer Sarlo during a traffic stop, Governor Tony Evers ordered all Wisconsin flags to fly at half-mast until the day of his interment. The proclamation emphasized the sacrifice made by law enforcement and called for public reflection.

February 2023 – Winter Storm Response

After a severe blizzard resulted in multiple fatalities across northern Wisconsin, flags were lowered for three days as a mark of respect for civilian lives lost. This rare move underscored the human toll of extreme weather events.

May 2023 – National Peace Officers Memorial Day

As required by federal law, Wisconsin observed the annual memorial day by lowering flags from sunrise to sunset. Additional tributes were held at the State Capitol in Madison.

October 2023 – Passing of Former State Senator Lena Taylor

Though not automatic, the Governor exercised discretion to honor Senator Taylor’s decades of public service, ordering flags lowered for one day upon her funeral.

How to Verify Current Flag Status

With no centralized real-time flag monitor, citizens must rely on official sources to confirm whether flags should be at half-mast. Below is a checklist to help verify current status:

📋 Flag Status Verification Checklist

1. Visit gov.wi.gov and search “flag proclamation” or check the Newsroom section.
2. Review recent press releases from the Governor’s office.
3. Check the Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs or Department of Administration bulletins.
4. Monitor local news outlets like WISN, WKOW, or Milwaukee Journal Sentinel for coverage.
5. Follow verified government social media accounts for time-sensitive updates.

Note: Federal flag directives automatically apply in Wisconsin unless superseded by state action. For example, if the President orders flags lowered nationwide, Wisconsin will comply without a separate proclamation.

Do’s and Don’ts When Flags Are at Half-Mast

Do’s	Don’ts
Pause briefly when passing a lowered flag as a sign of respect.	Do not raise personal flags above the national or state flag during mourning periods.
Ensure your own flag, if displayed, is properly lowered—topping the pole before descending to mid-point.	Avoid using half-staff as a political statement without official authorization.
Learn the reason behind the observance and share factual information.	Never leave a flag flying at half-mast beyond the designated period.
Attend memorial services or community vigils if appropriate.	Do not speculate publicly about unconfirmed flag changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do flags stay at half-mast in Wisconsin?

The duration depends on the event. For fallen service members or officers, it's typically until burial. National observances may last 3–30 days (e.g., presidential mourning). Governors specify end dates in proclamations.

Can cities or counties lower flags independently?

Local governments may choose to lower municipal flags, but only the Governor or President can officially order the U.S. or Wisconsin state flag to half-staff. Local actions should align with state directives to avoid confusion.

What’s the difference between half-staff and half-mast?

“Half-staff” refers to flags on land-based poles; “half-mast” is used when flags are flown on ships. In Wisconsin, “half-staff” is the correct term, though the terms are often used interchangeably in media.

Step-by-Step Guide to Properly Lowering a Flag to Half-Staff

If you’re responsible for displaying a flag at home, business, or public building, follow these steps to ensure correct protocol:

1. Confirm the proclamation: Ensure there is an official order from the Governor or President.
2. Begin at the top: Before lowering, raise the flag fully to the peak of the pole. This symbolizes respect before descent.
3. Lower to mid-pole: Carefully bring the flag down to approximately halfway. Use a rope system or extension pole as needed.
4. Secure safely: Make sure the flag does not touch the ground or become entangled.
5. Return to full staff: At the end of the designated period, again raise the flag to the peak before lowering it normally.

This ritual honors the symbolism of the flag—not just its position, but the intention behind its movement.

Historical Context and Civic Responsibility

Flag-lowering traditions in Wisconsin date back over a century. One of the earliest recorded instances was in 1918, following the death of Senator Paul O. Husting, killed in a plane crash—the first U.S. senator to die in an aviation accident. The state flew flags at half-staff for five days, setting a precedent for honoring public servants.

Today, these gestures remain a vital part of civic life. They offer communities a shared moment of pause amid daily routines, reinforcing values of unity, sacrifice, and remembrance. As societal awareness grows, so too has the frequency of proclamations—for instance, flags were lowered in 2022 after mass shootings in Milwaukee, reflecting evolving interpretations of collective grief.

Conclusion: Staying Informed and Showing Respect

The sight of a lowered flag carries deep meaning. Whether in response to national loss, military sacrifice, or local tragedy, Wisconsin’s decision to fly flags at half-mast reflects a commitment to honor and memory. By understanding the reasons behind these acts, verifying official sources, and observing proper etiquette, every resident plays a role in upholding this dignified tradition.

💬 Stay updated. Show respect. Share knowledge. Follow Wisconsin’s official government channels and help others understand why flags fly at half-mast. Your awareness keeps the tradition meaningful.