You’re driving to work or maybe just walking the dog, and you see it. The colors aren't at the top of the pole. They’re hovering halfway down, a silent signal that something significant happened. If you’re asking why is today’s flag at half mast, the answer depends heavily on which state line you’re standing in right now.
On this Tuesday, January 13, 2026, there isn’t one single national tragedy moving the flags, but rather several distinct tributes to public servants across the country. It’s a somber morning in Michigan, Maryland, and Massachusetts for very different reasons.
Honoring Local Heroes: State-Specific Proclamations
In the United States, we often think only the President can order flags lowered. That’s actually a total myth. Governors have the authority to lower the flags in their respective states to honor local figures or first responders.
Michigan: Remembering Senator Joel Gougeon
If you are in Michigan today, flags are lowered across the State Capitol Complex. Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued this order to honor former State Senator Joel Gougeon.
Gougeon was a bit of a local legend in the Bay City area. He wasn't just a career politician; he was an F-4 Phantom pilot in the U.S. Air Force before he ever stepped into the Senate. He’s the guy who helped rewrite the Michigan Mental Health Code to reduce stigma back in the 90s. He passed away recently, and today is the day the state officially marks his decades of service.
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Maryland: A Farewell to Detective Paul Hoke
Over in Maryland, the mood is heavy as the state honors Detective Paul Hoke of the Baltimore County Police Department. Governor Wes Moore ordered the flags to half-staff specifically for today, January 13, because it is the day of Detective Hoke's interment.
Hoke's story is particularly tragic. He suffered a medical emergency while on duty on New Year's Eve and passed away on January 2. Today, the community gathers to say their final goodbyes, and the flags at half-staff are a gesture of "end of watch" respect for a man who died while serving the public.
Massachusetts: Officer Stephen LaPorta
In the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, flags remain at half-staff under an order from Governor Maura Healey. This tribute is for Officer Stephen LaPorta, who died earlier this month. The order in Massachusetts is extended through January 15, meaning residents will see the flags lowered for several more days as the state honors his memory.
Why Do We Actually Do This?
It’s kinda fascinating when you look at the "how" behind the "why." There’s a very specific protocol for this. You don’t just hoist the flag halfway up and call it a day.
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According to the U.S. Flag Code, when you're lowering the flag to half-staff (or half-mast if you're on a ship), you have to briskly hoist it to the very peak for a second first. Then, you slowly lower it to the halfway point. When you take it down at sunset? You have to hoist it back to the top again before lowering it all the way.
It’s a bit of extra work, sure. But it’s meant to symbolize that the flag's "honor" is still there, even in times of mourning.
Common Misconceptions About Flag Status
People often get confused about who can call the shots. Honestly, it’s a short list:
- The President: For national figures or tragedies.
- Governors: For state officials or local heroes.
- The Mayor of D.C.: For District officials.
You might see a local post office or a bank with a flag lowered and wonder if you missed a massive news story. Sometimes, they’re just following a state-level order like the ones for Senator Gougeon or Detective Hoke. Other times, local managers might lower them out of personal respect, though strictly speaking, the Flag Code is pretty specific about who gives the official word.
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Actionable Steps for Flag Owners
If you manage a flagpole for a business or at your home, staying on top of these changes can be a hassle. Here is what you can do to stay informed:
- Sign up for alerts: Most state government websites (like Michigan.gov or Maryland.gov) have a "Flag Status" email list. They’ll ping you the second a Governor signs a proclamation.
- Check the US Flag Code: If you aren't sure how long to keep it down, the default for a former state official is usually just the day of interment, while a sitting Governor or Senator might get several days.
- Use a "Mourning Ribbon": If you have a flag mounted on a wall or a house-pole where it can't be lowered, you can attach a black crepe ribbon to the top of the pole to signify the same sentiment.
The flag at half-staff is more than just a piece of fabric sitting lower than usual. It’s a visual "moment of silence." Today, it tells the story of an Air Force pilot turned lawmaker in Michigan and a dedicated detective in Maryland who gave his life to his community.
Check your local state government's homepage for the most localized updates, as these orders can sometimes be issued with only a few hours of notice.