How Long Will Flags Stay at Half-Mast and Half-Staff Following Jimmy Carter's Death?
The passing of Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States, at age 100 in his hometown of Plains, Georgia, has prompted national mourning. In honor of his legacy, President Joe Biden announced a national day of mourning set for Thursday, January 9, 2024. The day will include official ceremonies to commemorate Carter’s life, including a state funeral in Washington, D.C., and public memorial observances in Georgia.
How Long Will Flags Stay at Half-Staff for Jimmy Carter?
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| Flags at half-staff for 30 days to honor Jimmy Carter |
President Biden ordered all U.S. flags to be displayed at half-staff for a period of 30 days following Carter’s death on Sunday, December 29, 2023. This is a customary tribute for the passing of a former president, reflecting the nation's respect for his service and contributions.
The White House directive applies to flags at:
- The White House
- Public buildings and grounds
- Military posts and naval stations
- Naval vessels
Additionally, the directive extends to U.S. embassies, consulates, and other facilities abroad. Flags will remain at half-staff until late January 2024, marking the full 30-day period of mourning.
Private companies, organizations, and citizens are also encouraged to lower their flags to half-staff as a sign of respect, though it is not mandatory.
Why Are Flags Flown at Half-Staff?
Flying flags at half-staff is a time-honored tradition signifying mourning, respect, or distress. This practice is often observed to honor the deaths of prominent leaders, military personnel, or victims of national tragedies.
In Jimmy Carter’s case, the decision to lower flags pays homage to his exceptional contributions to the United States and the world. Carter served as president from 1977 to 1981, during which he championed human rights, brokered the Camp David Accords, and prioritized environmental conservation. His post-presidential years were equally remarkable, marked by his humanitarian work with Habitat for Humanity and his Nobel Peace Prize in 2002.
President Biden emphasized the profound impact Carter had on the nation and the world in his official proclamation, noting that the flag-lowering directive reflects the collective respect of the American people.
The Difference Between Half-Mast and Half-Staff
The terms half-mast and half-staff are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings based on location:
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Half-Mast: Refers specifically to flags flown on ships or at naval stations. The flag is lowered halfway down the mast as a maritime tradition to honor the deceased or signify mourning.
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Half-Staff: Refers to flags flown on land, whether on flagpoles attached to buildings or freestanding. The term “half-staff” is more commonly used in the United States for flags displayed on shore.
For Jimmy Carter, flags are flown at half-mast on naval vessels and at half-staff on land-based locations, including government buildings and military posts.
Jimmy Carter’s Funeral Plans
The tributes to Jimmy Carter will include both public and private ceremonies. The White House announced that Carter’s body will lie in state at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., allowing the public to pay their respects. This tradition honors distinguished leaders and reflects Carter’s pivotal role in shaping the nation’s history.
On January 9, 2024, a state funeral will be held at the Washington National Cathedral. This prominent venue has hosted memorial services for other U.S. presidents, including George H.W. Bush and Ronald Reagan. The event will feature eulogies from national leaders, music, and prayers celebrating Carter’s life and legacy.
After the funeral, Carter’s remains will be transported to his hometown of Plains, Georgia, where he will be buried beside his wife, Rosalynn Carter, who passed away in 2023. The burial site is located at the Carter family’s residence, where the couple spent their final years together.
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The National Day of Mourning
President Biden declared Thursday, January 9, 2024, as a national day of mourning in Carter’s honor. On this day, federal offices will likely close, and many businesses and organizations may observe moments of silence or other tributes. The day is an opportunity for Americans to reflect on Carter’s contributions and celebrate his life as a statesman, humanitarian, and family man.
Jimmy Carter’s Legacy
Jimmy Carter’s 30 days of flag-lowering reflect his unique place in American history. As the longest-lived U.S. president, Carter exemplified a life of service. His commitment to peace, equality, and humanitarian efforts left an indelible mark not only on the United States but on the global community.
Carter’s life was dedicated to serving others, from his time as a peanut farmer in Georgia to his presidency and post-presidential years. His humility, kindness, and dedication to the greater good remain inspirational.
Conclusion
Flags will remain at half-staff for 30 days following Jimmy Carter’s passing, a gesture that underscores the nation’s respect and admiration for his lifelong service. This solemn tradition, coupled with the upcoming state funeral and national day of mourning, ensures that Carter’s legacy will be remembered by generations to come. As the flags fly at half-staff across the United States and beyond, they symbolize a shared mourning for a leader who devoted his life to building a better world.
FAQs
1. How long will flags stay at half-staff for Jimmy Carter?
Flags will remain at half-staff for 30 days from the day of Carter’s death, as ordered by President Biden.
2. What is the difference between half-mast and half-staff?
“Half-mast” refers to flags flown on ships or naval stations, while “half-staff” refers to flags on land-based poles.
3. When is the national day of mourning for Jimmy Carter?
The national day of mourning will be observed on Thursday, January 9, 2024.
4. Where will Jimmy Carter’s state funeral be held?
The state funeral will take place at the Washington National Cathedral in Washington, D.C.
5. Where will Jimmy Carter be buried?
Jimmy Carter will be buried in Plains, Georgia, his hometown, beside his wife, Rosalynn Carter.
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