Trump Orders US Flags to Half-Staff for Peace Officers Memorial Day

President Donald Trump ordered all U.S. flags to be lowered to half-staff on Friday, May 15, 2026 ^[1].

The directive serves as a national tribute to law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty. By lowering the flags across all 50 states and territories ^[2], the administration acknowledges the risks and sacrifices inherent in policing and public safety roles.

Peace Officers Memorial Day is a designated time for the country to remember those who died while serving the public. The order ensures that the observance is recognized at every level of government, from federal buildings to local municipal offices ^[1].

While the presidential order applies nationwide, some regions may have overlapping local directives. In Washington state, some reports indicate flags are at half-staff as part of a separate month-long directive ^[3]. Similarly, in Colorado, some reports suggest flags are lowered in tribute to former Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell ^[4]. However, the national order remains the primary driver for the flags flying at half-staff across the country ^[1].

Lowering the flag to half-staff is a traditional sign of mourning or respect. The action is carried out across all 50 states ^[2] to ensure a unified expression of gratitude for the fallen officers. This annual observance focuses on the human cost of maintaining law and order within the U.S. and its territories ^[1].