U.S. Flags to Fly at Half-Staff in Tennessee for Slain Memphis Officer

Sunday marked a day of solemn remembrance in Tennessee as the state mourned the passing of Memphis Police Officer Joseph Russell McKinney, who was tragically killed in the line of duty. Flagpoles across the state are hoisting the red, white, and blue slightly lower today, in an act of homage to the fallen hero.

Governor Orders Flags to Half-Staff

In accordance with the Honoring Hometown Heroes Act, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee has decreed that all American flags be flown at half-staff across the state. This solemn gesture of remembrance and respect is reserved for significant national moments of mourning, or to grieve the loss of prominent government officials or public servants, including law enforcement officers like McKinney.

The Governor expressed his deep sadness at the news of Officer McKinney’s passing, stating that he and his wife Maria are offering their heartfelt prayers to the McKinney family, and to the entire Memphis law enforcement community in these trying times.

Why Do Flags Fly at Half-Staff?

The tradition of flying the American flag at half-staff dates back to the 17th century, acting as a symbol of collective mourning. Usually, the U.S. President, a state governor, or the mayor of the District of Columbia orders the flag to be lowered in response to the death of significant figures or in the wake of national tragedies.

Tennessee Responds With Mourning

On this mournful day, the flag will fly at half-staff from sunrise to sunset. In remembrance of Officer McKinney, the flag will adorn the State Capitol in Nashville, as well as all state office buildings across Tennessee. Providing, not only a visible symbol of the sorrow felt across the state, but also, honoring the brave service of McKinney to his city and his nation.

Half-Staff or Half-Mast?

The term that is used depends on where the flag is flying. In general parlance, flags fly at “half-mast” on ships and at naval stations, while flags fly at “half-staff” elsewhere on land.

A Life of Service Cut Short

Officer McKinney was shot and killed on Friday, April 12. He was a dedicated public servant, committed to the safety and protection of the people of Memphis. His sudden and tragic loss has sparked a wave of mourning across Tennessee, impacting all who learned of the brave officer’s death.

As Tennesseans grieve this significant loss, the lowered flags will stand as a stern remembrance of the absolute risks that law enforcement officials willingly confront every day in their line of duty, signifying the high price paid for public safety and underscoring the critical role these officers play in our society.