Illinois Governor Pritzker Ordering Flags Flown Half-Staff May 15

We've recently discussed some unusual flags that were being flown in Illinois, and even noticed a home that was flying its U.S. Flag upside down, which should only be done when in distress.

The U.S. flags around Illinois seem to be lowered to half-staff every couple of weeks because of the Illinois Flag Display Act.

Governor Pritzker orders flags lowered "whenever an Illinois member of the armed force, police force, fire service, or other person covered by the act is killed in the line of duty," but on May 15 there's a different reason U.S. flags in Illinois will be flying at half-staff.

For One Day in May, Illinois Governor Ordering Flags Be Lowered

According to a press release from the Governor's office, "all person or entities covered by the Illinois Flag Display Act are to fly the flags at half-staff in honor of Peace Officers Day."

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U.S. Flags should be lowered at sunrise on Wednesday, May 15 and remain at half-staff until sunset.

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

According to USHistory.org, the term half-staff is used when lowering the flag over land, and while they've been used interchangeably, half-mast is more commonly used when lowering the flag at sea.

You can find out when the flag is lowered to half-staff nationally on Twitter by clicking HERE.

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Gallery Credit: Stephen Lenz