why are the flags flying at half mast

The flags are flying at half-mast 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. President Donald Trump ordered U.S. flags to be flown at half-staff nationwide until sunset on August 31, 2025, to honor the victims of this senseless act of violence. This order extends to all public buildings, military posts, naval stations, and U.S. embassies around the world. The gesture is a traditional sign of mourning and respect for those who lost their lives and were injured in the tragedy.