Flags are being flown at half-staff in several states to honor fallen individuals, including politicians, military personnel, and first responders. Orders are currently in effect in Michigan, North Carolina, and South Carolina. Each state remembers a different individual.
Significance of the Observance
These observances visibly express mourning and remembrance. Lowering the American flag is a longstanding tradition honoring those who made significant contributions at local, state, or national levels. Governors often issue directives for flag lowering to pay tribute to an individual’s service and sacrifice. They also encourage participation from residents, businesses, and local governments.
North Carolina’s Tribute to Fort Bragg Soldiers
In North Carolina, Governor Josh Stein ordered all U.S. and North Carolina flags at state facilities to be flown at half-staff through sunset Friday. This honors 1st Lt. Tyler James Feehan and Sgt. Michael Emmanuel Swinton, two Fort Bragg soldiers killed while serving in the Middle East.
The soldiers were part of the U.S. military’s mission in the region, assisting in counterterrorism operations, including combating the Islamic State (ISIS), and protecting U.S. personnel. Many American troops are still deployed, including in Jordan and Iraq. These events highlight the risks service members face while deployed overseas, even as the U.S. shifts away from large-scale combat roles.
According to the governor’s office, Feehan, originally from Ewa Beach, Hawaii, was killed in Jordan on July 18. He was part of the 2nd Battalion, 55th Air Defense Artillery Regiment at Fort Bragg, and enlisted in the Army in 2019. Swinton, from Fayetteville, died in Iraq on July 19. He was part of D Battery, 2nd Battalion, in the same regiment, enlisting as an air defense early warning system operator in 2017.
“North Carolina is grieving the losses of two heroes,” Stein said. “Sergeant Michael E. Swinton and First Lieutenant Tyler J. Feehan made the ultimate sacrifice to protect our freedoms. We owe them a debt of gratitude.”
Michigan’s Tribute to a Firefighter
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer instructed flags across the state to be lowered to half-staff on Friday to honor Sergeant Adam Amrozi. Amrozi, who died in the line of duty, served for 21 years with the Lincoln Park Fire Department and had previously worked with the Riverview Fire Department. Whitmer applauded Amrozi’s dedication, describing him as a “proud family man and dedicated public servant.” Firefighters in Michigan demonstrate “selflessness, courage, and dedication” daily. Governor Whitmer also urged public participation in the tribute.
South Carolina’s Ongoing Honor for Lindsey Graham
In South Carolina, flags at the State Capitol remain at half-staff as per a governor’s directive honoring Lindsey Graham, who passed away on July 11, 2026. Graham’s “extraordinary legacy” and service to South Carolina and the U.S. are being recognized. The order requests that flags at state buildings remain lowered until further notice.
Understanding Half-Staff Protocol
According to U.S. flag etiquette, a flag flown at half-staff should first be raised to full staff quickly, then lowered to the midpoint. At day’s end, the flag should be raised to full staff briefly before being lowered completely.
Upcoming Changes
The North Carolina order expires at sunset Friday. Michigan’s tribute for Sergeant Amrozi is also restricted to Friday. South Carolina’s order continues indefinitely, with flags at the State Capitol remaining at half-staff until further directives are issued.