Why New Jersey Will Have US and NJ Flags At Half-Staff In January

Formerly known as flying Half-Mast, the United States government changed the term because the mast is an Old World Nautical term. So the USA reserves Half-Mast for the flags on US Naval Ships while Half-Staff is for flags on the mainland.

The flying of the United States Flag at Half-Staff historically symbolizes mourning and respect. Whether it is for a tragic event or the death an of important person, the Federal Government and State Governments will order flags to fly at Half-Staff to remembrance.

This weekend, you will see the United States and New Jersey state flags being flown at Half-Staff.  Here is what you need to know about why this order has come down from Trenton.

Why are USA Flags and NJ State Flags Being Flown At Half-Staff

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed an Executive Order to have all US and New Jersey Flags flown at Half-Staff starting Friday January 10th in "recognition and mourning" of Billy DiMaio.

DiMaio was one of the victims of the New Year's Terrorist Attack in New Orleans. He was a graduate of Holmdel High School and he was one of the 14 people who were killed on Bourbon Street. Wednesday, January 8th was Louisiana’s Day of Remembrance for the NYE Terror Attack.

"Billy DiMaio’s life was tragically cut short due to the terrorist attack in New Orleans on New Year’s Day,” said Governor Murphy in a Press Release. “He’ll be remembered for his positive attitude, talents on and off the field, and generosity. We are keeping his family and loved ones in our prayers during this incredibly difficult time.”

Many United States Flags were already being flown at Half-Staff because of the death of the 39th President of the United States Jimmy Carter.  Carter passed away on December 29th and traditionally when a former President dies, the United States will fly flags at Half-Staff for 30 days.

Thursday, January 9th was the National Day of Mourning in Honor of Jimmy Carter and the day for the National Funeral Service.

Speaking of former US Presidents:

New Jersey has been the vacation destination for several of the men who served in the White House. President Ulysses Grant had a cottage in Long Branch while Presidents Benjamin Harrison and Franklin Pierce were among the famous men to vacation in Cape May.

But have you seen the New Jersey home of former United States President Grover Cleveland? The first President to serve two non-consecutive terms in the White House, Cleveland was originally born in Caldwell, New Jersey. Here is his former home in Princeton: