Gov. Andy Beshear has ordered flags at all state office buildings to be lowered to half-staff from sunrise until noon Monday, May 25, in observance of Memorial Day. The move is part of Kentucky's annual tradition of honoring military personnel who died in service to the nation.

"America is the home of the free because of the brave, and we have so much to give thanks for this Memorial Day as we honor the heroes who sacrificed for our freedom and our country," Beshear said in a statement. "To honor them and their families, let us commit to a more perfect union by finding common ground and moving our country forward for everyone."

The American flag is traditionally raised briskly to the top of the pole before being lowered to half-staff until noon on Memorial Day, a practice that dates back decades. The holiday, observed on the last Monday in May, is a federal observance during which federal and state employees do not work.

Beshear is encouraging all individuals, businesses, organizations and government agencies throughout the commonwealth to join in this tribute. Communities across Northern Kentucky, including Covington, Erlanger/Elsmere, Florence, Independence, and Newport, will host Memorial Day parades on Monday, May 25, while volunteers are invited to participate in Memorial Day Flag Placement at Mother of God Cemetery in Covington on Saturday, May 23.

Additional flag status information is available through the Governor's Office.