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What does lowering a flag at sea traditionally mean?
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flag
Various shapes of flags: (from left) rectangle (Algeria), square (Switzerland), pennant (Nepal), swallowtail (Ohio, U.S.).
In the context of maritime flag traditions, lowering a flagâoften referred to as "striking" the flagâis the traditional signal of surrender.1
It is important to distinguish this act from other ceremonial uses of lowering a flag at sea:
- Dipping: Ships salute one another by "dipping" their flags, which involves running the flag down from the masthead and then quickly raising it again to show honor and respect.1
- Mourning: A flag flown at half-mast serves as a universal symbol of mourning.1
- Distress: A ship signals distress by hoisting its national ensign upside down.1