As children darted across the South Lawn for the White House Easter Egg Roll, the American flag above them hung at half-staff — a quiet signal of mourning for Pope Francis amid celebration.
President Trump on Monday ordered U.S. flags lowered “as a mark of respect for the memory” of Francis, who died earlier in the morning. The directive stretches across the country and around the world, from federal buildings in Washington to U.S. military posts, consulates and embassies abroad.
“Flags shall be flown at half-staff at all public buildings and grounds, at all military posts and naval stations, and on all naval vessels of the Federal Government,” Mr. Trump wrote in his proclamation.
The flag on the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, which looms just west of the White House, was also lowered in tribute.
