You might notice flags around Wisconsin flying at half-staff Thursday.
The gesture, ordered by Gov. Tony Evers, is in remembrance of 9/11 and the thousands of people who died in the terrorist attacks in 2001. Here’s what to know about the flags at half-staff:
Why are flags at half-staff in Wisconsin on Wednesday?
Along with the rest of the country, flags in Wisconsin are flying at half-staff Thursday to commemorate the anniversary of the 9/11 attacks.
Nearly 3,000 people were killed on Sept. 11, 2001, when al-Qaida hijackers seized control of four commercial airliners. The hijackers crashed two planes into the World Trade Center in New York City, one into the Pentagon and the fourth into a field in western Pennsylvania.
In addition to lowering flags for the day, Evers has declared Thursday as a state Day of Service and Remembrance.“As we reflect on that fateful day and how our nation was forever changed, we are also called upon to remember the spirit of unity and service that guided us in the days following to come together and help support each other during a time of great need,” Evers said in the release. “I encourage Wisconsinites to join in honoring this solemn day through acts of kindness to their neighbors and acts service in our local communities.”
For potential volunteer opportunities on Wednesday and beyond, the governor’s office suggested looking through the Volunteer Wisconsin website. You can filter posts to find volunteer opportunities that are closest to you, matching your interests, virtual or in-person, among other options.
How long will flags be at half-staff?
Flags will fly at half-staff from sunrise to sunset Thursday.
Where will flags be at half-staff?
According to Evers’ order, the American flag and the Wisconsin state flag will fly at half-staff at all buildings, grounds and military installations belonging to the state of Wisconsin.
Why do flags fly at half-staff?
U.S. flags typically fly at half-staff in the wake of national tragedies or after deaths of government officials, military members or first responders. They also fly at half-staff on Memorial Day and other national days of remembrance, including 9/11.
“The United States flag flies at half-staff or at half-mast when the nation or a state is in mourning,” USA.gov says. “The president, a state governor, or the mayor of the District of Columbia can order flags to fly at half-staff.”
This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Why are the flags at half-staff in Wisconsin on Thursday?
Reporting by Maia Pandey, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
