Flags at Half-Staff in Multiple States to Honor Service and Sacrifice

Flags are flying at half-staff in several states on Friday, as governors commemorate fallen politicians, military members, and first responders. This practice remains active in Michigan, North Carolina, and South Carolina, each state honoring a different individual.

Significance of the Observance

Lowering flags to half-staff serves as a visible sign of mourning and remembrance. This tradition is rooted in honoring people who have made significant contributions to their communities, states, or the nation. Governors issue directives to encourage individuals, businesses, and local governments to share in the mourning and recognition process.

North Carolina’s Tribute to Fort Bragg Soldiers

Governor Josh Stein of North Carolina directed all U.S. and state flags at state facilities to be flown at half-staff through sunset Friday. This order honors First Lieutenant Tyler James Feehan and Sergeant Michael Emmanuel Swinton, two Fort Bragg soldiers who died while serving in the Middle East.

The soldiers were part of U.S. military efforts in the region, continuing operations against ISIS remnants and defending U.S. interests against Iran-backed groups. Thousands of U.S. troops remain deployed for these security operations.

First Lieutenant Feehan, from Ewa Beach, Hawaii, was killed in Jordan on July 18. He served as an Air Defense Artillery Officer with the 2nd Battalion, 55th Air Defense Artillery Regiment at Fort Bragg. Sergeant Swinton, a Fayetteville native, died in Iraq on July 19 and served with D Battery, 2nd Battalion of the same regiment.

Governor Stein expressed grief and gratitude for their sacrifice. He emphasized the heroes’ contributions to protecting freedoms and acknowledged their service cannot be adequately repaid.

Michigan Honors Firefighter’s Service

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer ordered flags to be flown at half-staff statewide in honor of Sergeant Adam Amrozi. Amrozi dedicated 21 years to the Lincoln Park Fire Department and previously served in Riverview. Governor Whitmer praised his selflessness, courage, and dedication, encouraging residents and institutions to participate in the tribute by lowering their flags.

South Carolina’s Ongoing Tribute

In South Carolina, flags remain at half-staff in recognition of Lindsey Graham’s legacy following his passing on July 11, 2026. The governor extended this honor, requesting that state buildings and subdivisions join the tribute until a new order is given.

Understanding Half-Staff Etiquette

Under standard U.S. flag etiquette, a flag must be raised briskly to the top before being lowered to half-staff. It should be raised again before being completely lowered at the day’s end.

Upcoming Changes

North Carolina’s order will expire at sunset Friday, and Michigan’s tribute concludes the same day for Sergeant Amrozi. Flags in South Carolina will remain at half-staff at the State Capitol until further notification from the governor.