US Flags at Half-Staff for Dick Cheney Create Veterans Day Confusion

On Tuesday, November 11, 2025, flags flew at half-staff in several US states. This unusual sight occurred on Veterans Day, a holiday when flags are traditionally raised to full mast. The gesture honored former Vice President Dick Cheney, who passed away on November 3.

This created a unique and somber overlap with a day meant for national celebration. According to Reuters, states like Texas, Iowa, and New Jersey acted on their own authority to lower the flags.

State-Level Tributes for a Former Vice President

Following Cheney’s death, the White House lowered its flags on November 4. However, no federal order was issued by the president. This left the decision to individual state governors.

Many states chose to proceed with the tribute. In New Jersey and Washington, flags will remain at half-staff until Cheney’s funeral on November 20. This extended period of mourning explains why flags were lowered on Veterans Day.

The absence of a federal directive is noted by political observers. It is widely attributed to the public political rift between Cheney and the former president.

Understanding the Veterans Day Flag Protocol

Veterans Day is a time for national pride and gratitude. It honors all who have served in the US military. The full-staff flag position symbolizes this spirit of celebration and honor.

A flag at half-staff is a universal symbol of mourning. It is typically reserved for periods of national grief or to honor specific figures after their passing. The simultaneous observances this year presented a visual contradiction.

For the public, the lowered flags on a celebratory day caused some confusion. Officials clarified that the tribute was solely for the former vice president. The nation was effectively observing two different remembrances at once.

The sight of US flags at half-staff on Veterans Day served as a poignant reminder of a complex political legacy, creating a unique moment where national mourning briefly intersected with a day of honor.

A quick knowledge drop for you

Why were flags at half-staff on Veterans Day?

Flags were lowered in several states to honor former Vice President Dick Cheney. This state-level tribute coincided with the Veterans Day holiday, which normally calls for flags to be at full staff.

Was there a federal order for flags at half-staff?

No, the White House did not issue a nationwide proclamation. Individual state governors made the decision to lower flags within their jurisdictions as a mark of respect.

Which states lowered their flags for Dick Cheney?

States including Texas, Iowa, New Jersey, and Washington publicly announced the tribute. The duration of the honor varied, with some states continuing it until his funeral.

How long will flags remain at half-staff?

This depends on the state. For instance, New Jersey and Washington plan to keep flags lowered until Cheney’s funeral service on November 20, 2025.

What is the correct flag protocol for Veterans Day?

By federal code, the American flag should be displayed at full staff on Veterans Day. This is to symbolize the nation’s pride and gratitude for its military veterans.

Trusted Sources

Associated Press, Reuters