President Joe Biden and governors across the U.S. have directed flags to fly at half-staff on December 7th in honor of National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. This day commemorates the 2,403 service members and civilians who lost their lives during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941, which led to the U.S. entering World War II. Biden emphasized the importance of preserving the legacy of those who died and upholding the values of freedom they fought for.
Flying the American flag at half-staff, also known as half-mast on a ship, is a sign of mourning and can be ordered by the president, a state governor, or the mayor of the District of Columbia. It is done to honor government officials, military personnel, first responders, or during national tragedies and remembrance days like Memorial Day. In 1994, December 7th was officially designated as National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day to honor the lives lost in the historic attack.
States have also issued orders to lower flags on this day to pay tribute to the victims of the Pearl Harbor attack. It is a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served their country and a time to reflect on the impact of such a significant event in American history.
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