President Donald Trump has ordered all American flags to be flown at half-staff to honor the victims of Wednesday’s deadly shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis. The order applies to public buildings, military posts, and federal facilities across the United States.
The Presidential Proclamation
Trump issued a formal proclamation on Wednesday directing flags to remain at half-staff until sunset on Sunday, August 31, 2025. “I hereby order that the flag of the United States shall be flown at half-staff at the White House and upon all public buildings and grounds, at all military posts and naval stations, and on all naval vessels of the Federal Government in the District of Columbia and throughout the United States and its Territories and possessions,” the proclamation read.
The order also directs that flags at US embassies, consulates, and other overseas facilities be lowered in memory of the victims. The move follows the tragic shooting that left two children dead and 17 others injured during a church service at the school.
National Mourning
Trump’s proclamation reflects a long-standing presidential tradition of lowering flags as a sign of collective mourning after mass tragedies. In addition to honoring the victims, the order is meant to show solidarity with grieving families and communities. The White House emphasized that the gesture is a reminder of national unity in times of tragedy.