Social Spotlight: Flags at Half Staff

Question: I noticed that neither the City of Sanford nor Lee County Government have lowered their flags to half staff in honor of the seven members of the 2nd Marine Expeditionary Force who were killed late Monday during training exercises in Nevada. Why aren't the flags at half staff for these young people?

Answer: The City of Sanford extends the most heartfelt of condolences for the families and friends of those who lost their lives on Monday.

However, there is protocol surrounding when we are allowed to lower the United States and North Carolina flags. They are:

• The United States flag may be lowered upon declaration by the President.
• The North Carolina flag may be lowered upon declaration by the Governor or when a federal declaration is made.
• The City of Sanford flag is lowered upon issuance of either of the above.

The City of Sanford is not allowed to lower flags except in the instances cited above. As of today, no such declarations have been made.

For further questions or concerns about flags, please contact Steve Stewart at 919-777-1203 or steve.stewart@sanfordnc.net.