Why are the half-staff for flags flying in Wisconsin on Sunday?

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Governor Tony Evers promulgated executive edict #235, mandating the ensigns of the United States and the Commonwealth of Wisconsin to be hoisted at half-mast today in commemoration of retired Major General Jerald David Slack.

The venerable Major General Slack departed this life on the 18th of May at the venerable age of 78. Governor Evers articulated, “General Slack shall be memorialized for his rectitude, valor, and unwavering devotion to duty, which indelibly impacted all who served alongside him.” General Slack’s tenure in the National Guard spanned 37 years. As Adjutant General, he proficiently managed deployments during Desert Storm, Southern and Northern Watch, and Operation Deny Flight, and was enshrined in the Wisconsin Air National Guard Hall of Fame in 2019.

Observing flags at half-mast across Wisconsin on Sunday may draw one’s attention.

This tribute, commanded by Governor Tony Evers, honors a veteran state servant and National Guard stalwart. Herein lies the essence of this homage and the luminary it venerates.

Why are flags at half-staff in Wisconsin ?

Ensigns are at half-mast by gubernatorial decree to pay homage to Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Jerald David “Jerry” Slack, who departed on May 18 at the age of 78.

Slack’s service in the National Guard spanned 37 years, commencing in Illinois in 1959 before transitioning to Wisconsin.

In 1989, Slack ascended to the role of Wisconsin’s adjutant general, the paramount officer in the state’s National Guard. For seven years, he commanded over 12,000 Wisconsin Guardsmen and oversaw significant military undertakings, including Desert Storm, Southern and Northern Watch, and Operation Deny Flight deployments.

The general also served as a civil engineer in the Wisconsin Department of Transportation and later as chief engineer for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, culminating his civilian vocation at the Wisconsin Department of Administration. “General Slack shall be remembered for his rectitude, valor, and unwavering dedication to duty, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew and served with him” Evers stated in a press release.

How long will flags be at half-staff?

Flags will fly at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on July 21.

Where will flags be at half-staff?

Per Evers’ directive, the American flag and the Wisconsin state flag shall be flown at half-mast at all edifices, precincts, and military installations under the purview of the State of Wisconsin.

Why do flags fly at half-staff?

U.S. flags are typically flown at half-mast following national calamities or the demise of government dignitaries, military personnel, or first responders. They also fly at half-mast during Memorial Day and other national days of remembrance.

“The United States flag flies at half-mast or at half-staff when the nation or a state is in mourning,” USA.gov elucidates. “The president, a state governor, or the mayor of the District of Columbia can mandate flags to fly at half-mast.”