US Flags Ordered To Fly At Half-Staff in Every State
Newsweek • • nation
Key Points:
- Flags across the United States will be lowered to half-staff on Memorial Day, May 25, following federal tradition and orders from governors, with a presidential proclamation expected from the White House.
- Memorial Day uniquely requires flags to be flown at half-staff only during the morning, symbolizing mourning, and then raised to full-staff at noon to represent national resolve and tribute.
- The protocol for half-staff flags on Memorial Day dates back to 1954, established by President Eisenhower to standardize the observance nationwide.
- Governors and officials encourage public participation by lowering flags in the morning and raising them at noon, attending memorial ceremonies, or observing moments of reflection.
- Memorial Day honors U.S. Armed Forces members who died in service, serving as a collective, nationwide act of remembrance and gratitude for their sacrifice.