Half-masting is when the Canadian Flag is lowered to half-way of the flag pole.  It occurs on events to show respect for people who are mourning. For example, after the death of Pope John Paul II and the tsunami. It is to express a deep sorrow. The process to half-mast starts when the flag is at the top. Then it is lowered slowly to half point. Though most flags can be half-masted, some can't. Flags without halyards are the ones that can't be half-masted. half-masting really depends on how large the flag is. Flags are in a half-mast position when the Department  of Canadian Heritage declares a period of mourning.The poles that have been half-Masting shares all the citizens' loss and depression. Taking down the flag comepletely is a dishonour for Canada.

    Some examples of the days that Half-masting occured on are: Vimy Ridge Day- it is the National Day of Rememberance of the Battle of Vimy Ridge, when Pope John Paul II died, on 9/11, and the more recent one, death of Prince Rainier III of Monaco. 

©CJJNRV - 2005