Gov. Greg Abbott has ordered that flags be lowered to half-staff at all state government buildings to recognize the victims of the Annunciation Catholic School shooting in Minneapolis.
Two children were killed Aug. 27, and at least 17 people were injured when a shooter fired through the windows of a Minneapolis Catholic Church toward young students worshipping at Mass, authorities said.
On Wednesday, President Donald Trump quickly issued a proclamation that the flag be flown at half-staff at the White House, all public buildings and grounds, at all military posts and naval stations, and on all naval vessels of the Federal Government in the District of Columbia and throughout the United States and its Territories.
"Today’s attack at a Catholic school in Minnesota is horrific and heartbreaking," Abbott said on Wednesday. "Cecilia and I are lifting up in prayer the families who lost innocent children, those injured, and the entire community as they face this tragedy. Texas is honoring President Trump’s request to lower flags in mourning for the lives senselessly taken and for all injured."
Flags should be returned to full staff at sunrise on Sunday, Aug. 31.
Why is the flag at half-staff?
When an American flag is flown at half-staff, the flag is flown two-thirds up between the top and bottom of the flagstaff, according to federalflags.com. It is traditionally employed to show respect for the passing of a prominent government official, military figure, or national tragedy.
Natassia Paloma may be reached at [email protected], @NatassiaPaloma on Twitter, natassia_paloma on Instagram, and Natassia Paloma Thompson on Facebook.
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This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: Flags lowered to half-staff in honor of Minneapolis shooting victims
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