Flags to fly at half-staff

[OntarioVanMan]

By The Associated Press

PIERRE -- Gov. Mike Rounds is asking that flags be flown at half-staff Wednesday in memory of South Dakota's latest Iraq War victim.

Decorated U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Zachary Tomczak, 24, was shot to death last week while on a patrol in a Baghdad suburb.

He joined the Army in 2002. During four tours of duty in Iraq, Tomczak was awarded the Bronze Star and a Purple Heart.

The soldier's funeral will be held Wednesday at the Huron arena.

Flags are to fly at half-staff from 8 a.m. until sunset.

On a personal note:

I would like to thank the Tomczak family for their son's sacrifice on our behalf. He served without being forced too, and died for our safety without ever knowing us. it is commitment like this that no terrorist could ever destroy. Thank You "

 

[greg334]

Correct me if I am wrong but I had to have a class on decorum and diplomatic standards and remember there are a lot of rules and one is flags don't get ordered half mast for anyone below an government official.

Flags are supposed to be at half staff on memorial day for all who lost their lives defending our country.

Well not to look like an a**, just remember for every military person who loses their life, it is everyone's loss.

 

[arkjarhead]

It's a shame that's guys and gals are having to die. I wish things could be different, and everyone could get along, but it has never been that way and it never will. I'm just glad we have men like him to stand up and protect us.

 

[greg334]

arkjarhead
I agree.

 

[terryandrene]

Greg is correct. Additionally, the Congress and the President are the only persons authorized to 'order' the National Ensign lowered to half-staff. Some locations and special days, like Memorial Day or death of certain Government officials, are permanently authorized half-staff recognition.

Federal flag etiquette guidelines do not provide for City Mayors nor State Governors to 'order' the National Ensign to half-staff. A Mayor may order a city flag and a Governor may order State flags, of their respective baliwicks, lowered to half-staff.

Having said all that, who’s going to argue the point? Flag etiquette guidelines are just that, guidelines and not law. I suggest you do whatever pleases or comforts you.

 

[Pappy]

Regardless whether the flag flies at half staff or not---Here's a salute to a fallen soldier!

Pappy
6 tours Vietnam
USMC