The status of the United States flag on Saturday, April 25, 2026, indicates that there is no nationwide federal proclamation requiring the flag to be flown at half-staff. On a national level, the American flag remains at full-staff today. However, specific state-level executive orders are currently in effect for West Virginia and Oklahoma, requiring flags on state property in those regions to be lowered to half-staff to honor specific individuals.

National Flag Status Overview for April 25 2026

As of this morning, no presidential proclamation has been issued from the White House to lower the flag across all federal buildings and grounds. Therefore, for most residents and businesses across the United States, the proper display remains at the top of the mast.

While the national status is clear, the U.S. Flag Code allows for localized honors. It is essential for residents in the following states to observe specific directives issued by their respective governors.

West Virginia State Flag Alert

In West Virginia, the flag is currently being flown at half-staff. Governor Jim Justice issued an order to honor a former state public official whose contributions to the state were significant. This specific order remains in effect through Monday, April 27, 2026. This pertains to all state-owned buildings and facilities throughout the state.

Oklahoma State Flag Alert

In Oklahoma, Governor Kevin Stitt has directed all American and Oklahoma state flags on state property to fly at half-staff. This directive was issued in solemn remembrance of Deputy Thomas “Walker” LeMay. This mark of respect and mourning is scheduled to continue through Monday, April 27, 2026. Local jurisdictions and private citizens often choose to follow these gubernatorial orders as a sign of community solidarity and respect for fallen law enforcement officers.

Understanding the Authority Behind Half-Staff Proclamations

A common question regarding flag etiquette involves who possesses the legal authority to order the flag to half-staff. Under the United States Code, Title 4, Chapter 1, Section 7, the authority is strictly defined to prevent the dilution of the symbol's significance.

Presidential Authority

The President of the United States has the primary authority to order the flag of the United States to be flown at half-staff upon the death of principal figures of the United States Government and the Governor of a State, territory, or possession, as a mark of respect to their memory. Additionally, the President may issue such a proclamation in the event of national tragedies or the death of foreign dignitaries.

Gubernatorial Authority

In 2007, the U.S. Flag Code was amended to clarify that the Governor of a State, territory, or possession also has the authority to proclaim that the National Flag be flown at half-staff upon the death of a present or former official of the government of the state, territory, or possession, or the death of a member of the Armed Forces from that state who dies while serving on active duty. This ensures that states can honor their local heroes and public servants without waiting for federal action.

Localized Directives

While mayors and local officials often express a desire to lower the flag for local tragedies, technically, the authority under the federal Flag Code rests with the President or the Governor. However, many local governments follow established customs to honor local first responders or prominent community figures, often by lowering the state flag or the municipal flag rather than the national colors, or by interpreting the gubernatorial authority broadly within their jurisdiction.

The Significance of Half-Staff in American Tradition

Flying the flag at half-staff is a visual representation of a nation or state in mourning. It is a tradition that dates back centuries, symbolizing that the invisible "flag of death" or a higher power is flying above the physical flag.

Historical Context of the Half-Staff Position

The practice is believed to have originated in the 17th century among naval vessels. By leaving a space at the top of the mast, sailors signaled that an invisible entity (death) had taken the place of honor. In the United States, the tradition became more formalized over time, culminating in the 1954 executive order by President Dwight D. Eisenhower, which established the first comprehensive set of rules for the display of the flag at half-staff.

Specific Occasions for Automatic Half-Staff Display

There are several days throughout the year when the U.S. flag is flown at half-staff without a specific daily proclamation:

  • Peace Officers Memorial Day (May 15): Unless that day falls on Armed Forces Day.
  • Memorial Day (Last Monday in May): The flag is flown at half-staff until noon and then raised to full-staff for the remainder of the day.
  • Patriot Day (September 11): To honor those lost in the 2001 terrorist attacks.
  • National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service (Typically in October): Honoring firefighters who died in the line of duty.
  • Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day (December 7): Commemorating the 1941 attack.

Protocol for Raising and Lowering the Flag to Half-Staff

Displaying the flag correctly requires more than just stopping halfway up the pole. The U.S. Flag Code dictates a specific procedure to ensure the honor is conveyed with the appropriate gravity.

The Correct Procedure

When the flag is to be flown at half-staff, it should first be hoisted briskly to the peak for an instant and then lowered slowly to the half-staff position. The "half-staff" position is defined as being one-half the distance between the top and bottom of the staff.

Before lowering the flag for the day, it should again be raised to the peak of the mast for a brief moment and then lowered ceremoniously.

Half-Staff on Different Types of Flagpoles

For flags displayed on a wall or in a window, the flag should be displayed flat. It cannot be "lowered" to half-staff. In these cases, it is common practice to attach a black crepe streamer to the top of the flag (the truck of the pole or the spearhead) to indicate mourning. On a telescoping home flagpole, if you cannot place the flag at a true half-staff position, the addition of a black ribbon is an acceptable alternative according to many vexillological experts.

Displaying Multiple Flags

If the U.S. flag is flown at half-staff, all other flags on the same halyard or on adjacent poles (such as state, municipal, or corporate flags) should also be lowered to half-staff or removed entirely. No flag should ever fly higher than the U.S. flag when it is in a position of honor or mourning.

Why Today’s Local Orders in West Virginia and Oklahoma Matter

The specific orders in West Virginia and Oklahoma for April 25, 2026, highlight the localized nature of honoring public service.

Honoring Civil Service in West Virginia

The order in West Virginia through April 27 emphasizes the state's tradition of recognizing those who have spent decades in the legislative or executive branches. These proclamations serve as a moment of reflection for the community, acknowledging that the stability of the state's governance relies on the dedication of its public officials.

Mourning Law Enforcement in Oklahoma

The lowering of the flag for Deputy Thomas “Walker” LeMay in Oklahoma is a profound gesture often seen when a member of law enforcement makes the ultimate sacrifice. In the United States, the death of an officer in the line of duty is considered a loss for the entire state. By lowering the flag, the Governor signaling that the state shares in the grief of the family and the law enforcement community.

The Cultural Impact of Flag Protocol

The American flag is more than just fabric; it is a symbol of national identity that evokes strong emotions. Research into public attitudes, such as studies conducted by the Institute for Governance and Civics (IGC) through 2025, shows that the vast majority of Americans view the flag with deep reverence.

Public Perception and Reverence

While debates over the legal protections of the flag (such as flag burning) have historically been polarized, the act of honoring the flag through protocol remains a unifying force. Approximately 65% of the public, according to recent data briefs, supports maintaining strict traditions regarding flag display. This collective respect ensures that when a "half-staff" order is issued, it is met with understanding and compliance by the public.

Educational Role of Flag Status

Many schools and civic organizations use daily flag status as a "teachable moment." Understanding why the flag is lowered today helps citizens engage with their local history and the sacrifices made by individuals in their community. It transforms a simple piece of news into a lesson on civic duty and remembrance.

What is the Difference Between Half-Staff and Half-Mast?

The terms are often used interchangeably, but there is a technical distinction recognized in the United States.

  • Half-Staff: This is the correct term for flags displayed on land, whether on a building or a freestanding pole.
  • Half-Mast: This term is technically reserved for flags flown on ships or at naval stations on shore.

While most people will understand the intent regardless of which term you use, using "half-staff" for land-based displays is the more accurate application of flag terminology in a civilian and federal context.

How to Stay Updated on Daily Flag Status

Flag proclamations can be issued at any time by the President or a Governor. To ensure compliance and show proper respect, it is recommended to monitor several sources.

Official Government Portals

The White House website and the official websites of state governors are the primary sources for executive orders. Most states have a dedicated "Flag Status" page or a notification system where residents can sign up for email or text alerts.

Local News Outlets

Local news stations and newspapers are often the first to report on state-specific orders, especially those honoring local fallen heroes or officials.

Veterans Organizations

Groups like the American Legion and the VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars) maintain high standards for flag etiquette and frequently update their members on current flag status and proper display techniques.

Summary of Flag Status for April 25 2026

To summarize the requirements for today:

  • National Level: The American flag should be flown at full-staff across the country, as there is no federal mandate for mourning.
  • West Virginia: Flags must be at half-staff on all state property through April 27, 2026, in honor of a former public official.
  • Oklahoma: Flags must be at half-staff on all state property through April 27, 2026, in honor of Deputy Thomas “Walker” LeMay.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Flag Status

Who can order the flag to be flown at half-staff?

Only the President of the United States and the Governors of states or territories have the legal authority to order the national flag to be flown at half-staff under the U.S. Flag Code.

Does a half-staff order apply to private homes and businesses?

Technically, the U.S. Flag Code is a set of guidelines and does not carry penalties for private citizens who do not follow it. However, most private citizens and businesses choose to follow federal and state proclamations as a sign of respect and community participation.

How long does a flag stay at half-staff after a public official dies?

The duration depends on the rank of the official. For a President or former President, it is 30 days. For a Vice President, Chief Justice, or Speaker of the House, it is 10 days. For other officials like Associate Justices, Cabinet members, or Governors, it is from the day of death until interment.

What should I do if my flagpole cannot fly at half-staff?

If you have a fixed-height pole (such as one attached to the side of a house) that cannot be adjusted, the American Legion suggests attaching a black crepe streamer or ribbon to the top of the pole to signify mourning.

Is the flag at half-staff for any holidays today?

No. April 25 is not a standard holiday that requires the flag to be at half-staff nationwide. The current alerts are specific to local state directives in West Virginia and Oklahoma.

Can the flag be flown at half-staff for a private citizen?

The Flag Code does not provide for the flag to be lowered for private citizens. However, if a Governor or the President determines a private citizen's contributions or the circumstances of their death warrant state or national mourning, they may issue a proclamation.

What time should I lower the flag to half-staff?

The flag is usually raised at sunrise and lowered at sunset. If you have an order to fly at half-staff, the protocol (up to the peak, then down to the middle) should be performed at sunrise or whenever the flag is first displayed for the day.

Should the state flag also be at half-staff?

Yes. If the U.S. flag is at half-staff, the state flag should also be at half-staff. If only the state flag is ordered to be lowered (which is rare but possible), the U.S. flag remains at the top.

Conclusion

Staying informed about the flag status today, April 25, 2026, ensures that you are participating in a meaningful national tradition with accuracy and respect. While the federal status remains at full-staff, the localized tributes in West Virginia and Oklahoma serve as important reminders of the individual lives and services that build the fabric of the nation. By following the proper protocols for raising and lowering the colors, you honor not just the flag itself, but the values and people it represents.