To the People of the United States:

It is with profound sadness that I announce the passing of James Earl Carter, Jr., the thirty-ninth President of the United States, on December 29, 2024.

President Carter was a man of unwavering character, immense courage, and boundless compassion. His life’s work was a testament to his belief in service, justice, and the power of hope. He embodied the highest ideals of our Nation: humility, determination, and a steadfast commitment to the betterment of humanity. A humble servant of God and the people, President Carter’s moral clarity and vision reshaped our world and inspired generations.

Born to a farmer and a nurse, President Carter’s journey began in Plains, Georgia. He entered public service in 1943 as a cadet at the United States Naval Academy, later serving with distinction in both the Atlantic and Pacific fleets. A decorated lieutenant, he was selected for the elite nuclear submarine program before returning home to manage his family’s peanut farm following his father’s death. In Plains, he balanced stewardship of the land with community leadership as a church deacon, Sunday school teacher, and board member for local institutions. This deep-rooted faith and commitment to service propelled him to roles as State Senator, Governor of Georgia, and ultimately, President of the United States.

As President, he held a profound belief that government must reflect the goodness of its people. With this ethos, he created the modern Department of Education and the Department of Energy, championed conservation, and prioritized a foreign policy centered on human rights. His leadership was instrumental in historic achievements like the Camp David Accords, nuclear nonproliferation initiatives, and the Panama Canal treaties. He forged a partnership with Vice President Walter Mondale that set a benchmark for future administrations.

In his post-presidency, President Carter’s unwavering dedication to humanity remained his hallmark. He worked tirelessly through the Carter Center to advance peace, eradicate disease, and champion human rights, freedom, and democracy worldwide. His moral leadership extended to building homes for the homeless and healing divisions, earning him respect as a trusted spiritual guide and global statesman.

President Carter’s life was enriched by the enduring partnership with his beloved Rosalynn, his wife of over 77 years. Together, they exemplified devotion to each other and to the ideals of public service. Their love was a beacon of hope and warmth, inspiring the Nation through their shared commitment to improving the lives of others.

As we mourn President Carter’s passing, let us honor his memory as a light guiding us forward. May his legacy inspire us to build a more just, compassionate, and united world.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, by the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, hereby order the flag of the United States to be flown at half-staff at the White House, on all public buildings, and across military and naval installations, as well as U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide, for 30 days beginning December 29, 2024.

Furthermore, I declare January 9, 2025, a National Day of Mourning. On this day, I call upon Americans to gather in places of worship and reflection to pay tribute to President Carter’s life and legacy. I invite the global community to join us in honoring this extraordinary statesman.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-ninth day of December, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-four, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth.

JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.