Trump orders American flags to be flown at half-mast as a 'sign of respect' for Pope Francis

US President Donald Trump ordered flags to be lowered to half-mast as a "sign of respect for the memory" of Pope Francis, who passed away on Monday.

The order applies to "all public buildings and grounds, at all military posts and naval stations, and on all naval vessels of the Federal Government in the District of Columbia and throughout the United States and its Territories and possessions until sunset on the day of the funeral," Trump wrote in the official announcement.

It also included “United States embassies, legations, consular offices, and other facilities abroad, including all military facilities and naval ships and stations.”

On the South Lawn of the White House, where the traditional Easter Egg Roll was taking place, the American flag atop the White House was lowered to half-staff Monday morning.