Half-mast refers to flags lowered on a ship, while flagpoles are called staffs, according to Americanflags.com. Flags lowered on shore are called half-staff, as flagpoles on the ground or buildings are called staffs. In Michigan, you can sign up for alerts when flags should be flown at half-staff.

Federal law states that flags are to be flown at half staff nationwide. Here's what that will look like in Oklahoma.

WASHINGTON — Commuters in the DMV area may have noticed that American flags outside have been lowered to half staff. The reason behind it is the recent passing of former U.S. Vice President Dick Cheney, who died Monday due to complications of pneumonia and cardiac and vascular disease. He was 84 years old.

ORLAND - After two emotionally packed meetings, with standing room only, discussing flying the Mexican Flag on city flag poles during Hispanic holidays, the Orland City Council opted for a