Flags lowered in honor of Pope Francis

President Trump issued a proclamation on April 21 ordering that the flag of the United States be flown at half-staff in honor of Pope Francis, who died at the age of 88 following a stroke. Flags were lowered at the White House, all public buildings and grounds, military posts, and naval stations and vessels “throughout the United States and its Territories and possessions until sunset, on the day of interment.”

The flag is traditionally lowered as a show of respect for fallen soldiers, public officials, and certain foreign dignitaries.

Many other countries have also lowered their flags as a show of respect for the pope, including the UK, Australia, and Italy, which also declared five days of national mourning.

In New Jersey, like other states across the nation, state flags have also been lowered as a sign of respect.

The president has also said he plans to attend the April 26 funeral of Pope Francis, along with First Lady Melania Trump. Many other world leaders have also said they will be present. UK Prime Minister Keith Starmer will reportedly attend the funeral with Prince William, who is going on behalf of his father, King Charles III. Other world leaders who are expected to attend the Pope’s funeral include King Felipe VI of Spain, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and the Argentinian President Javier Milei.