As a symbol of respect for the victims of the acts of violence Friday in Aurora, CO, President Obama has ordered that the flag of the United States shall be flown at half-staff at all government installations — including postal facilities — throughout the U.S and its Territories and possessions. The flag should remain at half-staff until sunset, July 25, 2012.

When flown at half-staff, hoist the flag to the peak for an instant and then lower it to the half-staff position. The flag should be raised to the peak again before it’s lowered for the day.

via USPS News Link Story – Flag at half-staff through July 25.

The Colorado shooting tragedy has touched the APWU family. Alex Sullivan, the son of an Aurora (CO) Local steward, was shot and killed July 20, during the rampage at a midnight showing of the Batman movie, The Dark Knight Rises. Eleven others died and more than 50 others were injured, police reported.

Sullivan was celebrating his 27th birthday at the movie. His father, Tom, serves as a steward at the Altura Station, where he works as a clerk.

“Alex was smart, funny and, above all, loved dearly by his friends and family,” a media statement from the family said.

“We are deeply saddened by this senseless act,” said APWU President Cliff Guffey. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Sullivan family and to the families of the other victims,” he said.