Sailors, ahoy!

Haha! Tell MrHarri I like that explanation!

Mr harri reckons a stern flag is either up or down if it is halfway up it is probably stuck. Maritime flags don't normally acknowledge deaths.

Thanks, glam. A non-NATO ship which had been docked hereabouts for a while (which is unusual) has recently sailed out with its stern flag at half mast.

bags information from mr G is that you are right with regard to it symbolising death,not necessarily of a death on board but to pay respect to anyone in authority who has passed away and it is a mourning period,he could be wrong (he often is) but he seems very confident on this.