By proclamation of the President of the United States, issued July 13, 2026, the flag of the United States is to be flown at half-staff until 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 18, 2026, as a mark of respect for the memory and longstanding service of Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina.
Remembering Senator Lindsey Graham
We join the nation in recognizing the passing of Senator Lindsey Graham, a devoted patriot who served South Carolina and the United States for more than four decades — in uniform and in office. A veteran of the U.S. Air Force, Senator Graham served for more than 30 years, retiring as a colonel in the Air Force Reserve, and brought a lifelong commitment to the military and a strong national defense to his work in the Senate.
First elected to the U.S. House in 1994 and to the United States Senate in 2002, he became one of the most influential conservative voices in the nation — a champion of American strength abroad and, as Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, a pivotal figure in confirming conservative judges to the federal bench. His devotion to his state and his country left a lasting mark on our nation’s history.
What the Proclamation Orders
As a mark of respect, and in accordance with the President’s proclamation, the flag of the United States is to be flown at half-staff until 6:00 p.m. on July 18, 2026, at:
- The White House and all public buildings and grounds
- All military posts and naval stations
- All naval vessels of the Federal Government
- U.S. embassies, legations, consular offices, and other facilities abroad
You may also see similar proclamations from your state’s governor for flags at government facilities. You can read the full proclamation on the official White House website.
How to Fly Your Flag at Half-Staff
- First, raise the flag briskly to the top of the pole (the peak).
- Then slowly lower it to the half-staff position — halfway down the pole.
- When the mourning period ends at 6:00 p.m. on July 18, raise the flag briskly to the peak again before lowering it for the day.
Can’t Lower Your Flag? Use a Mourning Ribbon
Many flags can’t be physically lowered — they’re mounted on a fixed house bracket, a wall, or a pole without a pulley. In these cases, the traditional way to show mourning is to attach a black mourning ribbon to the top of the flag.
The mourning ribbon serves as a significant symbol when you can’t physically lower your flag to half-staff. It’s flexible, so you can use it in situations where adjusting the flag’s position isn’t feasible. To be prepared for any occasion, it’s advisable to have a mourning ribbon for each flag you own — so whether at home, the office, or any other location, you can always express your respect appropriately.
Shop the Black Mourning Ribbon — Made in USA ($13.95) →
If you’re also looking to replace or add to your flag display, our American Flag High Winds 2-ply Poly (Made in USA) is built from dual-layer polyester for an authentic look and durability in high-wind and marine environments.
Thank you for joining us in this national gesture of respect.
— Jim Forte, US Patriot Flags LLC
