Flags at half-mast: yes, it's legal

[elfs]

I've seen a couple of posts recently arguing about whether or not the Presidential Order Monday ordering that flags be flown at half-mast in honor of the Pope is legal. It is. USC 4.7(m) states that "In the event of the death of other officials or foreign dignitaries, the flag is to be displayed at half-staff according to Presidential instructions or orders, or in accordance with recognized customs or practices not inconsistent with law."

The Pope qualifies as a "foreign dignitary."

Comments

[technoshaman.livejournal.com]

Yeah. On the one hand he is technically a head of state. On the other hand it seems like the flags have been at half-mast more of late than not, and I have to wonder who's footing the bill for Bubba and Paps to go along with The Emperor...

No, I'm not happy about it. Not one bit.

[intrepid-reason.livejournal.com]

He is the leader of a country!

[(Anonymous)]

Sternberg, you always consider it amusing when something is proven fact to you. Grow up, sir. The John Paul II was a very highly recognized and very important people of the closing of the 20th century.

[elfs.livejournal.com]

I'm easily amused.

John Paul may have been "highly recognized" and "very important" to some people, but that doesn't mean I have to show the man any respect. The road to Hell, the best intentions, and all of that.

[(Anonymous)]

I can understand you being easily amused. Except for when you talk about Democrats or athiests, of course.

[elfs.livejournal.com]

Oh, I find Democrats and atheists easily amusing, too, when they're buffoons. Did you not seem my post a few weeks ago about attending a Democrat election party and running into some serious red-diaper types? C'mon, I skewer everyone.

I just don't think the Pope deserves the attention he's getting. We're talking about a guy who upheld policies that resulted in megadeaths. The Catholic Church is not one to emphasize cures and healing; it's all about suffering for the glory of God. Holding up John Paul's struggle with Parkinsons isn't noble; it's tragic in a way P.T. Barnum could well understand.

And sell tickets for.