Comment on RMS Olympic in New York by zulumike
I found some more info. about why they flew the "star and stripes":
The foremast flag is frequently but incorrectly referred to as the "destination flag". While the flag at this location
did at times reflect the ship's destination - prior to leaving Southampton, for example - the flying of a "courtesy flag"
at this location always took precedence. A courtesy flag, or courtesy ensign, is the ensign of another country flown
when entering that country's port and during the ship's entire time in port. This was done as means of honoring
that country. Conversely, failing to do so was considered highly disrespectful, especially for naval vessels.
The foremast flag is frequently but incorrectly referred to as the "destination flag". While the flag at this location
did at times reflect the ship's destination - prior to leaving Southampton, for example - the flying of a "courtesy flag"
at this location always took precedence. A courtesy flag, or courtesy ensign, is the ensign of another country flown
when entering that country's port and during the ship's entire time in port. This was done as means of honoring
that country. Conversely, failing to do so was considered highly disrespectful, especially for naval vessels.
That's good info. Thanks.