Page Last Updated: 02/17/26
Since December 2015, NJSA 52:3-12.1 requires the Office of the Secretary of State create and maintain an electronic notification system alerting the public when US and State flags are to be flown at half-staff.
| Description | Date | Statute |
|---|---|---|
| Peace Officers Memorial Day If the 15th falls on the third Saturday of May, which is Armed Forced Day, the flags are not to be lowered. |
||
| Memorial Day (Until Noon) | ||
| Corrections Officer Day (Flags at State's correctional facilities) | ||
| Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day |
Governor Mikie Sherrill signed Executive Order No. 11, ordering U.S. and New Jersey flags to fly at half-staff on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, in recognition and in mourning of Camden Firefighter Howard Bennett. Howard Bennett passed away on Thursday, February 5, 2026, while conducting maintenance on a fire boat at Wiggins Park Marina on the Delaware River in Camden. He was a member of the Camden Fire Department assigned to Engine 1 and Fire Boat 1, serving for nearly 27 years.
“Howard Bennett was a devoted husband, father, brother, and public servant,” said Governor Sherrill. “He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and fellow firefighters. We are heartbroken by his passing and honor his legacy of service.”
This Order shall take effect immediately.
Governor Mikie Sherrill signed Executive Order No. 10, ordering U.S. and New Jersey flags to fly at half-staff on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, in recognition and in mourning of New Jersey State Police Sergeant First Class Trooper Sean William Acker. SFC Trooper Acker passed away on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, due to complications from a medical condition resulting from injuries sustained in the line of duty, leaving behind his loving wife, New Jersey State Police Retired Captain Lisa Acker, and their children, Connor and Samantha. SFC Trooper Acker joined the New Jersey State Police as a graduate of the 145th class of the New Jersey State Police Academy in 2006 and served for 19 years.
“Sergeant First Class Trooper Sean William Acker devoted his life to serving others, representing the very best of our state and our nation,” said Governor Sherrill. “We owe a profound debt to the men and women of the State Police who put themselves at risk every day to keep our communities safe. SFC Trooper Acker’s passing is a heartbreaking loss for all of New Jersey, and our hearts go out to his wife, Lisa, his children, Connor and Samantha, and his entire law enforcement family as we mourn this hero together.”
Official Site of The State of New Jersey