Biden orders U.S. flags flown at half mast to mourn Highland Park shooting victims

President Biden ordered U.S. flags at the White House and military bases to be flown at half-mast 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 till Saturday.

Biden on Sunday issued a statement saying that he was “shocked by the senseless gun violence” that had marred Independence Day, and noting that he was following the situation closely.

The shooting marred his previously planned July Fourth barbecue with military families at the White House which was followed by fireworks on the National Mall.

Just ten 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.