why are the flags at half staff today

The flags are at half-staff today to honor the victims of the Minneapolis school shooting that occurred on August 27, 2025, at the Annunciation Catholic School. This tragic event resulted in the deaths of two children and injuries to 17 others. By presidential proclamation, all flags at federal buildings, military posts, U.S. embassies, and throughout the United States are to be flown at half-staff until sunset on August 31, 2025, as a national gesture of mourning and respect for the victims and their families.