If the flag is in the half-staff position, how should it be lowered?

The correct procedure for lowering the flag from the half-staff position is to first raise it to the top of the staff for a brief moment and then lower it. This practice is significant as it symbolizes respect and honors the flag's meaning. Raising the flag to the top allows it to be saluted before being lowered, which follows the established protocol for showing respect to the national emblem. This action emphasizes the importance of the flag and its role in representing the nation. The rise to full staff serves as a reaffirmation of the flag's honor before it is brought down.

In contrast, simply lowering the flag directly would not acknowledge its significance as it bypasses the respectful salute typically given when raising the flag. A slow descent could imply a different solemnity, but it lacks the formal recognition given by raising it to full staff first. Additionally, folding the flag before lowering is not standard practice in this context; the flag should be lowered directly to the ground without folding until it is fully lowered.