SANDY BLANCHETTE (“Flags during wartime,’’ Letters, Nov. 16) wonders why flags are not flown at half staff at all times during wars to honor those being killed in the service of their country. The fact is, the Stars and Stripes are flown at half staff so often that the significance of this national sign of respect has been rendered nearly meaningless. The US code for the display of the flag provides that it be lowered under certain circumstances at the direction of the president or the governor of a state, territory, or possession. However, it seems to have become commonplace for local communities to lower the flag for any number of reasons. While perhaps well intentioned, this practice has reduced the observance to the point where it has become almost inconsequential.
John McDonough
Tewksbury 
