U.S. Flag Has Been Lowered in Illinois And This May Be Why

According to the Stars and Stripes Daily, the American Flag is currently at "full-staff status nationally, and a check of the Governor of Illinois' page showed the last notice to lower flags across the state ended a couple of weeks ago.

What are reasons to lower the U.S. flag to half-staff?

USA.gov says flags are lowered when a nation or state is in mourning for a death of a government official, first responder, or member of the military. A national tragedy is also an appropriate reason for flags to be at half-staff, as well as Memorial Day and other national days of remembrance.

Who can order a U.S. flag to be flown at half-staff?

The president, the governor, or the mayor of the District of Columbia are the only individuals who can order flags to be lowered and flown at half-staff during a period of mourning, according to USA.gov.

So if there's been no order from President Biden or Governor Pritzker to fly U.S. flags at half-staff, then why has the flag in the roundabout at Main Street and Auburn in Rockford been lowered for the past couple of days?

Here's Why Flags in Rockford May Be at Half-Staff

On Tuesday morning, the City of Rockford announced the passing of 13th Ward Alderman Linda McNeely who served the city for 26 years.

Alderman McNeely was a dedicated and passionate public servant. She fought hard on behalf of her ward and always asked hard, thought-provoking questions. She will be missed dearly by her family, friends and colleague. -Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara

I've not gotten confirmation but my best guess is U.S. flags around the City of Rockford are flying at half-staff out of respect for the death of Alderman McNeely.