Flags are flown at half-staff as a mark of respect or mourning, typically ordered by the president or a state governor. This is done to honor the death of principal government figures, such as the president, vice president, members of the Supreme Court, Congress, or other officials. It can also be ordered for tragic events, such as the deaths of first responders, military personnel, or victims of mass shootings. Recently, U.S. flags have been ordered to fly at half-staff by President Trump to honor the victims of a shooting in Minneapolis, with flags to remain at half-staff until Sunday, August 31, 2025. States like Minnesota and others have also ordered flags at half-staff in remembrance of local or national tragedies. This practice is a solemn national symbol typically declared to signify collective mourning and respect for those who have passed or to mark significant sorrowful events.
