They’re only “Half Mast” on ships... They are “Half Staff” because Trump ordered it based on the Pope’s death (which I disagree with).
I’m thinking the president did this out of respect. There’s nothing really wrong with that, even though I disagreed with the Pope wholeheartedly.
As a Navy Dependent and former Navy myself, my flagpole is ALWAYS a mast!
I understand the distinction, but I have no control over what landlubbers say! (only kidding!)
You may disagree with it, but being that the Vatican is a valid country (City-state), Pope Francis was a foreign dignitary. Flag code states: 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.