As a mark of respect for Pope Francis, the President has ordered the lowering of the United States flag to half-staff. This order is applicable at the White House, public buildings and grounds, all military posts, naval stations, and vessels under federal government authority in the District of Columbia, throughout the United States, and its territories. The flag will remain at half-staff until sunset on the day of the interment.
The ceremonial half-staff order also extends to all United States embassies, consular offices, and other facilities abroad, including military facilities and naval vessels. This directive shows the country's respect for the memory of the pontiff.
President Donald Trump issued this proclamation on April 21, 2025. "As a mark of respect for the memory of His Holiness Pope Francis," the proclamation reads, "I hereby order that the flag of the United States shall be flown at half-staff."
The President signs off this declaration by acknowledging the historical era of his tenure and the United States' independence, marking the year two thousand twenty-five and the country's two hundred forty-ninth year of independence.