Why is the U.S. Flag at Half-Staff? If you see a flag at a federal building that is flying at half-staff (I thought it was called half-MAST, but....) it's usually due to a presidential proclamation. These are found at the WhiteHouse.gov though nothing indicates "flag flying status." So browse the index of proclamations for any which mention a death, such as Rosa Parks or William H. Rehnquist. Within the text of the proclamation is the order for flags. If it is not a federal proclamation, it's local: "In the event of the death a present or former official of the government of any State, territory, or possession of the United States, the Governor of that state, territory, or possession may proclaim that the National flag shall be flown at half-staff." Try searching FirstGov.gov for the keywords: flag half-staff and see if you find orders from state governments, or search the states' website directly. Virginia has its own Flag Information page. ---Thanks to Sandy for pursuing this answer! 11/3/05 Updated 5/29507  ¶ 5/29/2007