Why are the flags at half-staff and how long will they remain after Jimmy Carter’s death?

In remembrance, flags across the country are flown at half-mast on land and at half-mast over water. former president Jimmy Carterwho died at the end of December.

Carter, who served in the White House from 1977 to 1981, was the oldest living former president until his death on December 29 at the age of 100 in his hometown of Plains, Georgia.

Declaring Thursday, Jan. 9, a day of national mourning in Carter’s honor and a day off for most federal workers, President Joe Biden also said flags would be flown at the White House, public buildings and grounds, and all military installations. displayed in the middle of the staff.

Before Carter funeral and memorialhere’s what you need to know about flags at half-mast.

‘Tramontane’: By promoting peace and justice, Jimmy Carter elevated the former president’s role

Why are the flags at half-mast?

After declaring a day of national mourning set for January 9, Biden said all flags would be flown at half-staff in the White House and on public buildings and grounds. Flags are also flown at half-mast on all military posts, naval stations, and at half-mast on warships.

Private companies and citizens may also fly flags at half-mast.

How long will the flags remain at half-mast?

The White House ordered public flags to be flown at half-mast for 30 days after Carter’s death on December 29.

What is the difference between half staff and half mast?

On ships and naval stations, flags are flown at half mast. On land, flags are flown at half-mast, meaning the flagpole is attached to a building or driven into the ground.

What are Jimmy Carter’s funeral plans?

After his death on December 29, Carter was lying at rest at the Carter Presidential Center in Georgia. His remains have already been transported to Washington, where they were laid to rest in the rotunda of the United States Capitol on Tuesday. The public is invited to pay their respects from 7 a.m. on January 8 to 7 a.m. on January 9.

On Thursday, January 9, there will be, among others: national funeral service at the Washington National Cathedral. Carter’s remains will then be transported to his hometown of Plains, Georgia, where a private funeral for the former president will be held.

Contributor: Gabe Hauari, Fernando Cervantes Jr.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Why are the flags at half-mast? What is worth knowing after the death of Jimmy Carter