Why Are U.S. Flags in Hawaii, West Virginia and Oklahoma Flying at Half‑Staff?

A handful of U.S. states are lowering their flags and flying them at half-staff starting on Friday, April 24, and into the weekend to honor periods of mourning.

According to the Veterans Affairs, "An easy way to remember when to fly the United States flag at half-staff is to consider when the whole nation is in mourning." In this case, however, it's certain states lowering their flags over the weekend.

Veterans Affairs add that "these periods of mourning are proclaimed either by the president of the United States, for national remembrance or the governor of a state or territory, for local remembrance, in the event of a death of a member or former member of the federal, state or territorial government or judiciary."

Why U.S. Flags Are Flying at Half‑Staff This Weekend?

Among the states lowering their flags this weekend are Hawaii, West Virginia and Oklahoma.

In Hawaii, the state is paying tribute to former Governor George R. Ariyoshi, and the state has had their flags lowered since April 20. Ariyoshi, who was Hawaii's third and longest‑serving governor, died on Sunday at the age of 100.

Gov. Josh Green ordered U.S. and Hawaii state flags to be flown at half-staff. In a statement provided to Hawaii News Now, Green explained, "Governor Ariyoshi devoted his life to Hawaii with humility, discipline, and an unwavering sense of responsibility to the people he served."

Green added, "He led our state during a pivotal moment with quiet strength and integrity, and his legacy as a trailblazer and public servant will endure for generations. Our hearts are with his family and loved ones."

George's wife Jean also issued a statement, stating, "Governor sacrificed and worked hard for most of his life to build a better future for the State of Hawaii and its people. Governor Ariyoshi loves you all very much."

The state of West Virginia has also been observing a half‑staff order since April 20 in honor of former Congressman McKinley, who died on April 17 at age 79.

Governor Patrick Morrisey issued a statement about the death, stating, "Denise and I were saddened to learn of the passing of Congressman David McKinley, who dedicated his life to serving the people of West Virginia."

He added, "From the House of Delegates to the United States Congress, David worked to move our state forward and made a real difference for those he represented. On behalf of the First Lady and myself, we extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife Mary, the entire McKinley family, and all who knew and loved him. His contributions to West Virginia will stand the test of time."

Finally, Oklahoma is honoring LeFlore County deputy Thomas "Walker" LeMay, who was killed in the line of duty.

"He never refused to go to a call, he went to every call," said Heavener police chief Josh Butler said in a statement, as reported by 5 News Online. "He treated people with respect, and he was - people say this through every tragedy, but officer LeMay was the nicest person I knew."

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Apr 24, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

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This story was originally published April 24, 2026 at 2:38 PM.