CURRENT EVENTS

Why are flags flying at half-staff this weekend?

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Flags are flying at half-staff this weekend to honor fallen firefighters during National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend.

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OccasionNational Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend
DatesMay 2-3, 2026
Geographic scopeEvery state, including Wisconsin and Virginia
Wisconsin executive actionGovernor Tony Evers signed Executive Order #290
Time of observanceSunrise to sunset on Sunday, May 3, 2026
PurposeHonor firefighters who died in the line of duty

National Observance

Flags across the United States are being flown at half-staff this weekend as part of National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend. The observance honors firefighters who have given their lives in service to their communities. Multiple states including Wisconsin, Virginia, Florida, North Carolina, and others have ordered flags lowered for this occasion.

Wisconsin's Recognition

Governor Tony Evers signed Executive Order #290 directing both U.S. and Wisconsin state flags to be flown at half-staff on Sunday, May 3, 2026. The governor proclaimed May 2-3, 2026, as National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend in Wisconsin. Governor Evers stated that firefighters run toward danger, putting their health, safety, and lives at risk, and that their sacrifices will never be forgotten.

Additional Wisconsin Commemorations

Executive Order #290 extends beyond this weekend to include future firefighter memorials. On September 26, 2026, flags will be lowered for the Final Alarm Ceremony at the Wisconsin Fire & EMS Memorial in Wisconsin Rapids. Additionally, on October 10, 2026, flags will be lowered during Fire Prevention Week to honor Wisconsin Firefighters Memorial Day, a date designated annually under Wisconsin state law.

Sources

  1. Why are flags at half-staff in Virginia on Sunday? (13newsnow.com)
  2. Wisconsin flags to fly at half-staff Sunday for fallen firefighters (wtaq.com)

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