Why are NC flags at half-staff this week? Here’s what to know
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- Gov. Stein ordered flags lowered July 13 through sunset July 18.
- Flags were lowered in North Carolina to honor South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham, 71.
- The governor can order state flags lowered, while federal orders affect federal sites.
All North Carolina flags will fly at half-staff through Saturday in honor of Lindsey Graham, a South Carolina senator who died unexpectedly this weekend.
On Monday, July 13, Gov. Josh Stein ordered flags lowered to half-staff effective immediately through sunset Saturday, July 18.
Graham, 71, was one of the most influential members of congress, serving in the Senate since 2003. The preliminary cause of death was a tear in the aorta, the body’s main artery, The State reported.
“Lindsey Graham was a dedicated public servant and friend,” said U.S. Sen. Ted Budd on social media. “As an unapologetic champion for America and our allies, his loss will be felt immensely in the Senate and around the world. My prayers are with his family and loved ones as they mourn this tremendous loss.”
Sen. Thom Tillis called Graham “a lifelong public servant, a tireless champion for South Carolina, and an outspoken advocate for America’s role in protecting freedom throughout the world.”
Who decides when flags are at half staff?
Flags can be ordered lowered by the North Carolina Governor at state buildings and by a Presidential proclamation, which affects federal buildings, grounds and naval vessels.
“At no time shall an order be given that would result in the flag of the state of North Carolina being displayed in a manner inconsistent with the various policies governing the display of both the United States and North Carolina flags,” according to the flag code.
Stein previously ordered flags lowered to half-staff for a state trooper killed in a crash and after a state representative died from cancer, The N&O reported.
In addition to somber remembrances, the flags can be lowered for some holiday observances like:
- National Firefighters Memorial Day, first Sunday in May
- Peace Officers Memorial Day, May 15
- Memorial Day, last Monday in May
- Patriot Day, Sept. 11
- Pearl Harbor Day, Dec. 7
Portions of this story were previously reported by The News & Observer.
