Half-staff is the term used for flags on land, particularly in the United States. Half-staff describes a flag that is raised halfway, between the top and bottom of the flagpole.

Half-mast is used when the flag is flown from a flagpole, typically referring to a ship mast or similar structures, according to Federal Flags. Half-mast means the flag is flown two-thirds up between the top and bottom of the flagstaff.

The governor ordered the flag change to honor the 1,200 people who died during the Hamas-led attack on Oct. 7, 2023, during a celebration for the Jewish holiday, Shemini Atzeret. There were 46 Americans killed. One year later, 250 people have been taken hostage, including 12 Americans, according to the White House.

He was pinned in his patrol vehicle when it was hit from behind by an SUV when he had pulled over a semi on I-75 near Dix.

When the American flag is flown at half-staff, it conveys a message of respect and mourning. Federal Flags says this custom is most often observed following the death of a government official, military personnel or in response to a national tragedy.

“The hearts of Iowans go out to the innocent Israeli families and American citizens killed by Hamas. Iran and its terrorist proxies continue to attack as Israeli forces fight to protect their people against the forces of evil,” Reynolds said according to a press release. “Iowa stands, as it always has, with Israel."

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Kate Kealey is a general assignment reporter for the Des Moines Register. Reach her at kkealey@registermedia.com or follow her on Twitter at @Kkealey17.

LANSING, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – Flags have been ordered to be lowered to half-staff today by Governor Whitmer in honor of Michigan State Police Motor Carrier Officer Dan Kerstetter.