why is the us flag at half staff today

The U.S. flag is at half-staff today as a mark of respect for the victims of a mass shooting that occurred on August 27, 2025, at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis, Minnesota. This tragic event resulted in the deaths of two children and injuries to 17 others. President Donald Trump ordered that the flag be flown at half-staff across the nation from August 27 until sunset on August 31, 2025, to honor the victims of this senseless act of violence. This order applies to all public buildings, military posts, naval stations, and U.S. embassies and facilities abroad.