President Joe Biden ordered U.S. flags at the White House and military bases to be flown at half-staff starting Tuesday through Saturday to mourn the victims of the shooting rampage in Highland Park, Illinois.
Noting that the attack took place at a July Fourth parade, Biden said on Tuesday that the nation should come together in mourning the loss of life on America’s birthday celebration.
“As a mark of respect for the victims of the senseless acts of gun violence ... I hereby order that the flag of the United States shall be flown at half-staff,” Biden said in a statement.
The flag-lowering order applies to the White House, all federal buildings, military bases and overseas embassies and consulates.
It will remain in effect until Saturday.
Biden on Sunday issued a statement saying that he was “shocked by the senseless gun violence” that had marred Independence Day, and noted that he was following the situation closely.
The shooting disrupted his previously planned July Fourth barbecue with military families at the White House, which was followed by fireworks on the National Mall.
Just 10 days prior to Monday’s attack, Biden signed the most significant gun-violence bill in 30 years into law on June 25.
“God willing, it’s going to save a lot of lives,” the president said.
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