Flags Lowered and National Day of Mourning Declared
President Joe Biden has directed U.S. flags on all federal buildings and grounds to be flown at half-staff for 30 days in honor of former President Jimmy Carter, who passed away at the age of 100. Biden has also designated January 9 as a National Day of Mourning to commemorate the life and contributions of the 39th president.
Speaking from St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands, where he is vacationing, Biden expressed profound admiration for Carter, describing him as a leader defined by “simple decency” and a life measured by impactful actions rather than words. Biden highlighted Carter’s compassionate support during personal tragedies, including when Biden’s son Beau succumbed to cancer. “Jimmy knew the ravages of the disease too well,” Biden noted, recalling Carter’s own battle with brain cancer, which went into remission in 2015.
Reflecting on Carter’s Enduring Values
In his tribute, Biden praised Jimmy Carter as a timeless figure of integrity, humility, and faith. “In today’s world, someone could see Jimmy Carter as a man of a bygone era. But I don’t believe it’s a bygone era. He embodies values we must never let slip away,” Biden remarked. The president also drew inspiration from Carter’s resilience and unwavering optimism, emphasizing, “Never give up hope.”
Carter’s post-presidential humanitarian work, which earned him a Nobel Peace Prize, stood out as a beacon of moral clarity. From advancing civil rights and housing the homeless to combating disease and promoting peace, Carter left an indelible mark on the world. Biden called him “a man of great character and courage, hope and optimism.”
A Life of Service and Partnership
Biden announced plans for an official state funeral for Carter, with details to be coordinated with the Carter family. Traditionally, such ceremonies include the former president lying in state at the Capitol Rotunda and a service at Washington National Cathedral.
Reflecting on Carter’s enduring legacy, Biden noted that millions who never met him felt a personal connection to his work. “With his compassion and moral clarity, he saved, lifted, and changed the lives of people all across the globe,” Biden said. He also cherished the remarkable bond between Carter and his wife Rosalynn, describing their relationship as “the definition of partnership and patriotism.” Rosalynn Carter passed away last year, and Biden expressed comfort in knowing they are “reunited once again.”
Biden urged younger generations to study Carter’s life as a model of purpose and meaning. “He showed that we are a great nation because we are a good people – decent and honorable, courageous and compassionate, humble and strong,” Biden concluded.
As the nation prepares to honor Jimmy Carter, his legacy of humility, decency, and unwavering dedication to humanitarian causes serves as a guiding light for generations to come.
