ExecutiveOrdersEO
Proc 8540ProclamationObama · DCeremonial

Proclamation 8540

Death of Senator Robert C. Byrd, President Pro Tempore of the Senate

This proclamation orders U.S. flags to be flown at half-staff until sunset on the day of Senator Robert C. Byrd's interment as a mark of respect, and directs that flags be displayed at full-staff on Independence Day, July 4, 2010, in his honor.

Federal Register Open PDF 75 FR 38911

Impact dates

  1. Half-staff flag status continues until sunset on day of interment (date unspecified in document)

  2. Flags displayed at full-staff on Independence Day

Key directives

  • Flags at half-staff at White House, all public buildings and grounds, military posts, naval stations, and naval vessels until sunset on day of interment
  • Same half-staff period for all U.S. embassies, legations, consular offices, and facilities abroad
  • Flags at full-staff on July 4, 2010 at same locations in honor of Senator Byrd

Timeline

Immediate

  • half-staff flag order takes effect immediately

Near term (90d)

  • full-staff display on July 4, 2010
  • half-staff continues until interment date

Long term

—

Risks & tensions

  • Interment date not specified in proclamation, creating uncertainty for half-staff duration
  • Dual flag status directives (half-staff then full-staff on July 4) could create confusion if interment occurs on or near July 4
Proclamation 8540: Death of Senator Robert C. Byrd, President Pro Tempore of the Senate · Executive Orders