Flags across Texas and the nation are flying at half-staff Friday in honor of Peace Officers Memorial Day, a national observance recognizing law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty.
The memorial was established in 1962 and takes place every year on May 15 during National Police Week, which is observed May 10-16.
President Donald Trump this week issued a proclamation ordering U.S. flags to be lowered to half-staff on Friday at federal buildings, military posts, embassies and other government facilities nationwide. State and local governments are also able to join the observance.
Flag etiquette
For Texans who want to join in and lower flags at their homes or businesses, flag etiquette recommends first raising the flag completely to the top of the pole before lowering it to the halfway point.
At sunset or when taking the flag down, it should again be raised fully before being lowered completely.
The U.S. Flag Code defines half-staff as positioning the flag midway between the top and bottom of the pole.
Half-staff holidays
Peace Officers Memorial Day is one of several occasions each year when the president directs flags to be lowered nationwide.
Other national half-staff observances include:
- National Firefighters Memorial Day — May 4
- Memorial Day — Last Monday in May
- Korean War Veterans Armistice Day — July 27
- Patriot Day — Sept. 11
- Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day — Dec. 7
The flag is also lowered during periods of mourning following the deaths of major public figures or national tragedies.