Protocols

State of Wyoming Half-Staff Protocol

CHEYENNE, Wyo. – Governor Mark Gordon has ordered both the U.S. and Wyoming State Flags be flown at half-staff statewide from sunrise to sunset on Friday, June 11, 2021 in honor and memory of wildland firefighter and Cody resident Tim Hart.

Forest Service Half-Staff Protocol

When a USDA employee dies, approval may be given by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture to display the national colors at USDA buildings at half‐staff in tribute. 

Displaying the American Flag

To properly display the American Flag at half‐staff, it is first hoisted up the flagpole until it reaches the very top, and then lowered to the half‐staff posi‐ tion. When retrieving the flag from a half‐staff position, it is first hoisted smartly to the top of the pole (full staff), then slowly lowered. Any state or agency flag on the same flagpole will remain below the American flag at half‐staff.

Rendering a Salute

The purpose of the hand salute is to demonstrate respect and courtesy. When directed to do so by the event’s master of ceremonies, all uniformed personnel will stand at the position of attention, and render a hand salute (crew shirts and nomex can be considered a uniform); while others place their right hand over their heart. If wearing a hat as part of the uniform, it can remain in place during the salute; all other hats will be removed and held in place over the heart with the right hand. 

While standing at the position of attention your arms at your sides, thumbs by the seams of your pants, fingers curled under. You should look forward and stand still. The command “Present, Arms!” will be given. Upon hearing “Arms!” you will lift your right hand from its position along your pants, and flatten your palm as you lift so fin‐ gertips touch your right eye‐ brow, with all fingers together, extended straight out and joined with your thumb (tilted forward slightly so that you can see your palm with your peripheral vision). Your right arm should be bent at a 45‐degree angle with your forearm parallel to the ground. When the command “Order, Arms!” is given, smartly return your right arm to your side with fingers curled.

Shrouding badges and Shields

As a symbol of mourning and respect for USDA or Forest Service employee who died in a Line of Duty Death (LODD), shrouding of the bronze uniform badge may be banded horizontally with a black elastic band. 

Similarly, the Forest Service shield logos on Agency vehicle  doors can be shrouded with a horizontal black line crossing just above the center of the shield. This is often accom‐ plished using two pieces of black masking tape.