Why are flags flying at half-staff in South Carolina on Thursday?

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WCBD) — South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster has ordered that flags be flown at half-staff on Thursday at all state buildings, grounds, and military installations.

The action is part of the observance of Peace Officers Memorial Day, a day honoring the “service, bravery and sacrifice” of law enforcement officers killed or injured in the line of duty.

The unofficial holiday was established in 1962 through a joint congressional resolution signed by President John F. Kennedy. The proclamation also proclaimed the calendar week during which the day falls as “Police Week.” Each presidency has carried on the tradition.

“…we honor our brave officers who serve on the front lines to protect our families, safeguard our communities, and shoulder a burden of responsibility that most Americans cannot fathom,” a  May 12 proclamation by President Donald Trump reads, in part. “This week and always, we honor the courageous men and women serving in law enforcement and memorialize those who sacrificed their lives defending the thin blue line.”

Flags will be lowered from sunrise to sunset, per the governor’s order.