History of the American Flag
The flag of the United States is a symbol of freedom before which Americans recite the Pledge of Allegiance.
The flag's 13 red and white stripes represent the 13 original colonies. Its 50 white stars on a blue background represent the 50 states.
Each of the colors on the flag has a meaning:
Red: valor and bravery
White: purity and innocence
Blue: vigilance, perseverance, and justice
A star is added to the flag when a new state joins the United States. The flag was last modified on July 4, 1960, when Hawaii was incorporated as a state.
When to fly the flag at half-staff
The American flag flies at half-staff or at half-mast when the country or a state is in mourning. The president, a state governor, or the mayor of the District of Columbia can order flags to fly at half-staff.
In most cases, an American flag flying at half-staff marks one of three observances:
The death of a government official, military member, or emergency first responder
A national tragedy
Memorial Day or another National Day of Remembrance