States Lower Flags to Honor Fallen Heroes

Flags in several states are at half-staff on Friday as governors pay tribute to fallen politicians, military personnel, and first responders. This gesture in Michigan, North Carolina, and South Carolina honors different individuals in each state.

The Significance of Half-Staff Flags

Flying flags at half-staff represents mourning and remembrance. This practice is a time-honored way of recognizing those who have made significant contributions to their communities, state, or the nation. Governors often direct this tribute to honor the service and sacrifice of individuals, encouraging communities, businesses, and local entities to participate.

North Carolina Remembers Two Fort Bragg Soldiers

Governor Josh Stein of North Carolina has mandated that U.S. and North Carolina flags at state facilities remain at half-staff until sunset on Friday. This order honors 1st Lt. Tyler James Feehan and Sgt. Michael Emmanuel Swinton, two soldiers from Fort Bragg who died while serving in the Middle East.

The mission in the Middle East involves U.S. forces supporting regional partners, conducting counterterrorism against ISIS remnants, and defending U.S. personnel from threats by Iran-backed militants. Thousands of U.S. troops are stationed in the region, including in Jordan and Iraq, as part of these operations.

Feehan was a native of Ewa Beach, Hawaii, who died in Jordan on July 18. He served with the 2nd Battalion, 55th Air Defense Artillery Regiment at Fort Bragg and enlisted in the Army in 2019 as an Air Defense Artillery Officer. Swinton, from Fayetteville, died in Iraq on July 19. He began his service in 2017 as an air defense early warning system operator with the same regiment.

“North Carolina is grieving the losses of two heroes,” said Stein. “Sergeant Michael E. Swinton and First Lieutenant Tyler J. Feehan sacrificed their lives to protect our freedoms.”

Michigan Honors Fallen Firefighter

Governor Gretchen Whitmer ordered flags to half-staff across Michigan in honor of Sergeant Adam Amrozi, who died in the line of duty. Amrozi served 21 years with the Lincoln Park Fire Department and had a previous role with the Riverview Fire Department.

Whitmer stated, “He was a proud family man and dedicated public servant,” emphasizing the selflessness and courage of Michigan firefighters. Residents and organizations are encouraged to join in this tribute by lowering their flags as well.

South Carolina’s Ongoing Tribute to Lindsey Graham

Flags at South Carolina’s State Capitol are at half-staff following an order recognizing Lindsey Graham, who passed on July 11, 2026. The order commemorates his “extraordinary legacy” and requests flags at state buildings and political subdivisions fly at half-staff as well.

Understanding Half-Staff Protocol

According to U.S. flag etiquette, a flag should be raised to the top of the pole briskly before being lowered to the half-staff position. At day’s end, it should be briefly returned to full staff before being taken down completely.

Future Steps

North Carolina’s and Michigan’s orders conclude on Friday. South Carolina’s order will remain until further notice, with Capitol flags continuing at half-staff until a new directive is given.