Why are flags flying at half-staff in Wisconsin on Tuesday?

Claire Reid, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Updated ·3 min read

As you go about your day today, you may notice American and State of Wisconsin flags flying at half-staff today around the state.

This gesture honors Hmong-Lao veterans who fought alongside the United States in the Vietnam War.

Here's what to know.

Why are the flags at half-staff in Wisconsin today?

Gov. Tony Evers signed Executive Order #224, ordering American flags and the Wisconsin state flag to be flown at half-staff on Tuesday, May 14, in honor of Hmong-Lao Veterans Day.

The American Flag flies at half staff at Milwaukee City Hall in Milwaukee on Thursday, Dec. 22, 2022.
The American Flag flies at half staff at Milwaukee City Hall in Milwaukee on Thursday, Dec. 22, 2022.

Evers designated May 14 as Hmong-Lao Veterans Day in 2021 as a way to honor and recognize the Hmong veterans who contributed to U.S. military efforts in the Vietnam War. The CIA recruited Hmong people in neighboring Laos to fight the North Vietnamese Army and communist Pathet Lao forces in the "Secret War" in Laos.

Many Hmong-Lao soldiers faced violence and persecution from the Vietnamese and Lao governments following the war and were forced to leave their homes. May 14, 1975, was the last day of airlift evacuation of remaining Hmong-Lao soldiers and their families from Long Tieng, Laos, to the Nam Phong refugee camp in Thailand, a release from Evers states. Many later resettled in U.S. communities, including in Wisconsin. Wisconsin is now home to the third-largest Hmong population in the country, according to the release.

"Hmong-Lao veterans bravely and selflessly fought side-by-side with U.S. troops during the Vietnam War with many ultimately facing harsh retribution for doing so, including being forced to flee their homelands. These veterans are an important part of our state's story and our history," Evers said in a statement.

Evers has proclaimed May 14 as Hmong-Lao Veterans Day in Wisconsin each year since assuming office in 2019. The 2021 Wisconsin Act 31 requires the governor to annually issue a proclamation for the day's observance. This includes ordering flags to be flown at half-staff, requesting the day be used to recall veterans' accomplishments and thank them for their service, and encouraging schools to discuss Hmong military service in support of the U.S.

How long will the flags be at half-staff?

Flags will fly at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Tuesday, May 14, per Evers' Executive Order #224.

Frank Brah of Milwaukee lowers the flag at his home to half-staff on Nov. 22, 1963, after the death of President John F. Kennedy was announced. This photo was published in the Nov. 23, 1963, Milwaukee Sentinel.
Frank Brah of Milwaukee lowers the flag at his home to half-staff on Nov. 22, 1963, after the death of President John F. Kennedy was announced. This photo was published in the Nov. 23, 1963, Milwaukee Sentinel.

Where do flags fly at half-staff?

Evers ordered that, on May 14, the American flag and the Wisconsin state flag fly at half-staff at all buildings, grounds and military installations belonging to the State of Wisconsin.

Why do flags fly at half-staff?

"The United States flag flies at half-staff or at half-mast when the nation or a state is in mourning," USA.gov says. "The president, a state governor, or the mayor of the District of Columbia can order flags to fly at half-staff."

Most often, it marks:

  • The death of a government official, military member or first responder.

  • A national tragedy.

  • Memorial Day or another national day of remembrance.

More: Sheboygan South High students to honor Hmong veterans, culture with community presentation

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Why are flags at half-staff in Wisconsin on May 14, 2024?