President Donald Trump has ordered flags to be flown at half-staff across the United States in honor of the victims of “the senseless acts of violence” following a mass shooting in Minneapolis on Aug. 27.
Two children were killed and at least 17 other people were injured when a shooter opened fired through the windows of Annunciation Church during a morning mass celebrating the first week of school. The suspect has been identified as 23-year-old Robin Westman, who died by suicide after the shooting.
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“Wisconsin is keeping our neighbors across the river in our hearts today,” Gov. Tony Evers said in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Here’s what to know:
How long will flags be at half-staff in Wisconsin?
American flags are ordered to fly at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Aug. 31, according to Trump’s proclamation.
Where will flags be at half-staff in Wisconsin?
Flags will fly at half-staff at the White House, all public buildings and grounds, military posts and naval stations as well as on all naval vessels in Washington, D.C. and throughout the U.S. and its territories, per Trump’s proclamation.
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Why do flags fly at half-staff?
Flags are usually flown at half-staff after national tragedies or deaths of government officials, military members or other first responders. They may also be at half-staff for Memorial Day or other national days of remembrance, including 9/11, according to USA.gov.
“The United States flag flies at half-staff or at half-mast when the nation or a state is in mourning,” USA.gov says. “The president, a state governor, or the mayor of the District of Columbia can order flags to fly at half-staff.”
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Melina Khan of USA TODAY contributed to this report.
This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Why are flags flying at half-staff in Wisconsin today?