President Joe Biden and governors nationwide have directed flags to be flown at half-staff on December 7 in honor of National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. This day commemorates the 2,403 service members and civilians who lost their lives in the Japanese attack on the U.S. naval base in Hawaii in 1941. The attack marked the U.S. entry into World War II. President Biden emphasized the importance of honoring their sacrifice and preserving the flame of freedom they fought to protect.
Flying the American flag at half-staff, or half-mast on a ship, is a symbol of mourning in the U.S. It is typically done to honor fallen officials, service members, first-responders, or during national tragedies. National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day was designated by Congress in 1994 to ensure that the sacrifices of those who fought and died at Pearl Harbor are never forgotten. The lowering of flags is a way for Americans to show their respect and remembrance for those who gave their lives in service to their country. President Biden’s proclamation encourages federal agencies and individuals to take part in this solemn tradition. States have also issued their own orders to lower flags in honor of this significant day in American history.
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