Flags to fly at half-staff to honor coronavirus victims

Flags at all state buildings in Arizona will be lowered to half-staff until sunset Sunday to honor victims of the coronavirus pandemic.

Gov. Doug Ducey’s order was done in conjunction with President Trump’s proclamation honoring the victims. Individuals, businesses and other organizations are encouraged to join in the tribute.

Through Friday morning, nearly 1.6 million Americans have contracted the virus, and more than 95,000 have died from it, according to Johns Hopkins University & Medicine Coronavirus Resource Center. More than 15,600 Arizonans have contracted the virus and 775 of those were fatal, according to the state Department of Health Services COVID-19 dashboard.

The presidential proclamation, issued Friday morning, read, in part:

“Our Nation mourns for every life lost to the coronavirus pandemic, and we share in the suffering of all those who endured pain and illness from the outbreak. Through our grief, America stands steadfast and united against the invisible enemy. May God be with the victims of this pandemic and bring aid and comfort to their families and friends.”

The proclamation calls the lowering of the flags “a mark of solemn respect” for the victims.