Memorial Day

The U.S. Flag Code provides that the flag is displayed at half-staff until noon on Memorial Day, then raised to full-staff for the remainder of the day. The morning lowering honors those who died while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces, while the noon raising symbolizes the nation carrying their legacy forward.

Provenance

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The circular MAST seal means Mast created this record from an official source and normalized its schedule, scope, and details for easier reference.

Mast analysis

Mast interpretation

Memorial Day honors members of the United States Armed Forces who died in service to the country. Federal flag guidance gives the day a two-part display: mourning during the morning followed by a return to full-staff at midday.

The flag is flown at half-staff from sunrise until noon local time. At noon, it is raised to the top of the staff and remains at full-staff for the rest of the day. This differs from most federal half-staff observances, which continue until sunset.

The annual schedule is established by the U.S. Flag Code, so a separate proclamation is not required for the morning half-staff period to apply.

Source record

Authority and evidence

4 U.S.C. 6(d) and 4 U.S.C. 7(m)

This page summarizes Mast’s reading of the published order. Consult the issuing authority for the original record.

Official source Read the related Mast guide

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Editorial information

Written and maintained by Josh Forehand

Last reviewed August 16, 2026