THE HALF MAST CUSTOM As early as 1627, however, the flying of the Flag at half-staff had become a sign of mourning - a submission to higher divine sources. For centuries there were no standards for half-staffing. On March 1, 1954, President Dwight Eisenhower issued instructions stating when, and for what length of time the Flag of the United States should fly at half-staff. Originally the half-staff custom was only intended for persons who did courageous service for their country. Over the past decade, we have been in a war. Our country has lost many brave service members. Why do we fly our flag at half mast for politicians who pass on but not our service members who are the core of this country. ALL FLAGS SHOULD BE FLOWN AT HALF MAST AS LONG AS WE ARE IN A WAR. Every government building, base, etc. should have flags at half mast as a constant reminder of sacrafice and loss. HALF MAST ALL DAY, EVERY DAY UNTIL WAR IS OVER AND EVERY SINGLE SOLDIER IS HOME!