Several cities and countries — including New York City, the United Kingdom, and Australia — have ordered flags to be lowered to half-staff in honor of Pope Francis' death. Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires to Italian immigrant parents,

According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs website, flags are flown at half-staff on scheduled holidays and events in the United States. Flags are also flown at half-staff during periods of mourning, which are often announced via decrees from the President or Governor.