Why are flags at half-staff in Wisconsin today?

The gesture, ordered by Gov. Tony Evers, is in memory of a decorated World War II veteran whose remains were recently identified. Here's what you need to know about the half-staff flags and the Wisconsinite they honor:

Why are flags at half-staff in Wisconsin on Monday?

Flags will be flown at half-staff in memory of U.S. Army Air Force Sergeant Jack Hohlfeld, who died more than 80 years ago but whose remains were only recently identified and returned to Wisconsin.

Hohlfeld was born in Vernon County and raised in La Crosse and Trempealeau counties, according to a news release from the governor's office. He enlisted in the Army in 1938 and served in the Philippines.

In December 1941, Hohlfeld and his squadron members were captured by Japanese forces and made prisoners of war. He remained captive in a war camp until his death on December 26, 1942, after which he was buried in a mass grave with other servicemen and later transferred to a cemetery in Manila.