WASHINGTON, D.C. — In observance of Memorial Day, President Donald J. Trump has issued a proclamation ordering all United States flags to be flown at half-staff from sunrise until noon on Monday, May 26, 2025. This gesture follows a long-standing national tradition to honor and remember the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces who lost their lives in military service.
The half-staff directive applies to all public buildings, grounds, and military posts throughout the country. In addition, Americans are encouraged to observe a moment of silence at 3 p.m. local time, known as the National Moment of Remembrance.
Memorial Day, originally known as Decoration Day, dates back to the years following the Civil War and became an official federal holiday in 1971. It is traditionally observed on the last Monday of May.
Lowering the flag to half-staff until noon symbolizes the nation’s mourning. Raising it to full-staff at noon signifies that the living will continue the fight for liberty and justice, a legacy left by the fallen.
Local, state, and federal agencies, as well as individuals and businesses, are invited to participate in the observance by adjusting flag displays accordingly.
