14-05-2025
Why are flags at half-staff in Wisconsin on May 14?
Gov. Tony Evers has ordered flags across Wisconsin to fly at half-staff on May 14 in observance of Hmong-Lao Veterans Day.
'Members of our Hmong-Lao veteran community bravely served this nation during the Vietnam War and in conflicts since, and these heroes deserve every honor and respect they've earned,' Evers said in a statement. 'As governor, it's important to me that we protect, defend, and support the veterans who've protected, defended, and supported us, and that includes our Hmong-Lao heroes.'
In 2021, Evers declared May 14 to be Hmong-Lao Veterans Day to honor those who fought alongside the U.S. military during the Vietnam War. Many Hmong-Lao veterans had to flee with their families after the war ended and settled throughout the U.S., including in Wisconsin, according to a May 12 release.
Today, Wisconsin has the third-largest Hmong population in the nation, the release said.
More: Wisconsin bill would give veteran status to Hmong and Laotian soldiers who fought in 'Secret War'
Here's what to know:
Flags across Wisconsin will fly at half-staff until sunset on May 14.
Per Evers' order, the American flag and the Wisconsin state flag will fly at half-staff at all buildings, grounds and military installations belonging to the state of Wisconsin.
Flags are typically flown at half-staff after national tragedies or the deaths of government officials, military members or other first responders. They may also be at half-staff for Memorial Day or other national days of remembrance, including 9/11, according to
More: Evers signs bill requiring schools to teach histories of Asian and Hmong Americans
This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Why are the flags flying at half-staff in Wisconsin on May 14?
