Why are flags flying at half-staff in California?
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You might notice flags around California flying at half-staff or half-mast, as incorrectly called when not on ships.
Gov. Gavin Newsom ordered the gesture in memory of a California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) employee. Here's what to know about the half-staff flags and the Californians they honor.
Why are flags at half-staff in California?
Flags were at half-staff by an executive order from the governor to honor Caltrans equipment operator Alexander Rodish, who died Monday after being struck by a vehicle while working on Interstate 5 in San Clemente.
Rodish joined Caltrans in 2021; he was an equipment operator II at the San Juan Capistrano maintenance yard.
He is survived by two adult children, a sister and a brother. Rodish is the 194th Caltrans worker to lose their life on the job since 1921.
“Jennifer and I are deeply saddened to learn of the death today of Caltrans worker Alexander Rodish,” Newsom said in a statement. “A Caltrans employee since 2021, Alexander was a dedicated public servant committed to making our roads safer for all Californians. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family and all mourning this terrible tragedy."
How long will flags be at half-staff?
Flags will fly at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on July 23.
Where will flags be at half-staff?
According to Newsom's order, the American flag and the California state flag will fly at half-staff at all buildings, grounds, and military installations in the State of California.
Why do flags fly at half-staff?
U.S. flags typically fly at half-staff in the wake of national tragedies or after the deaths of government officials, military members, or first responders. They also fly half-staff during Memorial Day and other national days of remembrance.
"The United States flag flies at half-staff or at half-mast when the nation or a state is in mourning," USA.gov says. "The president, a state governor, or the mayor of the District of Columbia can order flags to fly at half-staff."
What's the difference between half-staff and half-mast
The difference between half-staff and half-mast depends on where the flag flies. The terms are often used interchangeably, but half-staff refers to a flag hanging halfway up on a flag pole on land, while half-mast pertains to a flag flying halfway up the mast on a ship at sea.
This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: Why are flags flying at 'half-mast' in California on Monday?
