Pierre, South Dakota – Governor Larry Rhoden has directed that flags at the State Capitol be lowered to half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Tuesday, September 16, 2025. This solemn act honors the memory of Karen Soli, a former member of the South Dakota House of Representatives.
Remembering Karen Soli’s Legislative Service
Table of Contents
- 1. Remembering Karen Soli’s Legislative Service
- 2. Memorial Service Details
- 3. Understanding Flag Protocols and Memorial Traditions
- 4. Frequently Asked Questions about Flag Protocols
- 5. What is the past origin of flying flags at half-staff, and how has its meaning evolved?
- 6. South Dakota Observes Half-Staff Recognition on September 16, 2025
- 7. Understanding the Order for flags at Half-Staff
- 8. Why Flags are Flown at half-Staff
- 9. Specifics of the September 16, 2025 Order
- 10. Proper Flag Display Protocol
- 11. Lowering the Flag
- 12. Raising the Flag
- 13. Specific Considerations for South Dakota Residents
- 14. Resources for Flag Etiquette
- 15. Historical Precedents in South Dakota
- 16. Staying Informed About future Orders
Karen Soli dedicated her service to the people of South Dakota from 2013 to 2018,representing her constituents in the State House. Her contributions during this period are remembered by colleagues and community members alike. According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, the average tenure for state legislators has been increasing, reflecting a growing commitment to public service, however, Ms. Soli’s five-year tenure was still a dedicated period of service.
The flag lowering is a customary tribute reserved for individuals who have substantially contributed to the state, reflecting the respect and gratitude of South Dakota for their dedication. It is a tangible presentation of mourning and remembrance.
Memorial Service Details
A funeral service celebrating the life of Karen Soli will be held at Spirit of Joy Lutheran Church in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at 1:00 pm Central Time. Friends,family,and members of the public are invited to attend and pay their respects.
| Event | Date | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flag Lowering | September 16, 2025 | Sunrise to Sunset | South Dakota State Capitol |
| Funeral Service | September 16, 2025 | 1:00 PM CT | Spirit of Joy Lutheran Church, Sioux Falls, SD |
Did You Know? The practice of flying flags at half-staff dates back to maritime tradition, signifying mourning for those lost at sea.
pro Tip: Checking the official South Dakota government website for updated details regarding flag protocols is always recommended.
What are your thoughts on the importance of honoring public servants like Karen Soli? How can communities best remember the contributions of their representatives?
Understanding Flag Protocols and Memorial Traditions
The lowering of flags to half-staff is a long-standing tradition rooted in respect and remembrance. Beyond honoring individuals, it’s a symbolic gesture that unites communities in mourning. According to the U.S. Flag code, the flag should be flown at half-staff upon the death of a principal figure, often with presidential proclamation. Understanding these traditions helps us appreciate the importance of these displays of respect.
The symbolism extends beyond national events, often being used at the state and local levels to acknowledge the passing of prominent community members and public officials. It’s a visual representation of collective grief and a tribute to a life of service.
Frequently Asked Questions about Flag Protocols
- What does it mean when a flag is flown at half-staff? it signifies mourning and respect for someone who has died,often a public figure or a member of the military.
- Who decides when to fly a flag at half-staff? The President of the United States and state governors typically issue proclamations ordering flags to be lowered.
- Is there a specific way to lower and raise the flag? Yes, there is a specific protocol outlined in the U.S. Flag Code, including a slow, deliberate lowering and raising.
- What is the past origin of flying flags at half-staff? The tradition originated with maritime practices, signaling mourning for those lost at sea.
- Can private citizens fly flags at half-staff? Yes, private citizens can voluntarily fly their flags at half-staff as a personal expression of mourning.
Share your condolences and memories of Karen Soli in the comments below. Let’s collectively honor her legacy of service.
What is the past origin of flying flags at half-staff, and how has its meaning evolved?
South Dakota Observes Half-Staff Recognition on September 16, 2025
Understanding the Order for flags at Half-Staff
On September 16, 2025, the flags of the United States and South Dakota will be flown at half-staff throughout the state. This solemn act is a sign of respect and mourning,typically ordered by the President or Governor to honor individuals who have died in service to the nation or the state. Understanding the protocol surrounding flag displays is crucial for citizens, businesses, and organizations in South Dakota.
Why Flags are Flown at half-Staff
The practice of flying flags at half-staff dates back to maritime tradition. It originally signaled a ship in distress. Over time, it evolved into a universally recognized symbol of respect for loss and national mourning.
* National Mourning: Ofen ordered following the death of a prominent national figure, such as a President, Vice President, Supreme Court Justice, or other high-ranking official.
* State Mourning: Governors can order flags lowered to half-staff to honor South Dakota residents who have died in the line of duty, or for other notable state-level tragedies.
* Honoring Fallen Heroes: Frequently observed to commemorate the deaths of military personnel, firefighters, law enforcement officers, and other public servants.
* Symbolic Gesture: Lowering the flag is a visible demonstration of unity and shared grief.
Specifics of the September 16, 2025 Order
As of today, September 15, 2025, the specific reason for the half-staff order on September 16th has not been publicly released. Official announcements regarding the cause will be available through the following sources:
* Office of the governor of South Dakota: https://governor.sd.gov/
* South Dakota Department of Public Safety: https://dps.sd.gov/
* Official State News Releases: Regularly monitored for updates.
It is important to rely on official sources for accurate information regarding the reason for the flag order.
Proper Flag Display Protocol
Adhering to proper flag display etiquette demonstrates respect and honors the intent of the half-staff order.Here’s a breakdown of key guidelines:
Lowering the Flag
* Timing: Flags should be lowered to half-staff at sunrise on September 16th and remain in that position until sunset.
* Method: Slowly and respectfully lower the flag to the halfway point.
* Multiple Flags: When multiple flags are displayed, all should be lowered concurrently.
Raising the Flag
* Timing: Flags should be raised briskly to full-staff at sunrise on September 17th, unless otherwise directed by official proclamation.
* Respectful Handling: handle the flag with care and reverence.
Specific Considerations for South Dakota Residents
* Private Residences: While not legally mandated,residents are encouraged to participate in showing respect by lowering their flags.
* Businesses & Organizations: Businesses, schools, and other organizations are strongly encouraged to comply with the half-staff order.
* City & County Buildings: All city and county buildings throughout South Dakota should adhere to the protocol.
* Veterans Organizations: Veterans organizations frequently enough play a key role in flag ceremonies and ensuring proper display.
Resources for Flag Etiquette
* U.S. Flag Code: https://www.usa.gov/flag – the official guide to flag etiquette.
* South Dakota State Flag Information: https://history.sdshs.org/resources/flags/ – details about the South Dakota state flag and its history.
* Local Veterans Affairs Offices: can provide guidance on proper flag display.
Historical Precedents in South Dakota
South Dakota has observed numerous periods of flag mourning in recent years. Examples include:
* September 11th Remembrance: Flags are routinely flown at half-staff on September 11th to honor the victims of the 2001 terrorist attacks.
* Fallen Law Enforcement Officers: Following the line-of-duty deaths of South Dakota law enforcement officers, the Governor has consistently ordered flags lowered.
* National Tragedies: In response to national events, such as mass shootings or natural disasters, South Dakota has joined the nation in observing periods of mourning.
* Honoring Veterans: Flags are often flown at half-staff to commemorate the passing of prominent South Dakota veterans.
Staying Informed About future Orders
To stay informed about future flag orders