Nation's Flags at Half-Staff

As a mark of respect for the victims of the tragedy at Virginia Tech, President George W. Bush has issued a proclamation directing that "the flag of the United States be displayed at half-staff at the White House and on all public buildings, grounds" until sunset, Sunday, April 22, 2007.

According to the National Flag Foundation, federal law states "by order of the President, the flag shall be flown at half-staff upon the death of principal figures of the United States Government and the Governor of a State.  In the event of the death of other officials or foreign dignitaries, the flag is to be displayed at half-staff according to Presidential orders, or in accordance with recognized customs or practices not inconsistent with the law."

As a public building, the Fontana Unified School District's schools and district office will display both the United States and California flags at half-staff through sunset Sunday, April 22, 2007.

Flag protocol indicates that each day the flag be raised to its peak then respectfully lowered to half-staff. At the end of the day, the flag is again to be hoisted to its peak before being lowered.

Click here to view the White House Proclamation honoring the victims of the tragedy at Virginia Tech.