Virginia Flags to Fly at Half-Staff Thursday, October 22, in Honor of Army Maj. Bianca C. Wilkerson
Gov. Abigail Spanberger orders flags lowered from sunrise to sunset in tribute to the Norfolk soldier and her service to the nation.
RICHMOND, VA — Flags of the United States and the Commonwealth of Virginia will fly at half-staff on state and local government buildings and grounds on Thursday, October 22, 2026, in memory of U.S. Army Maj. Bianca C. Wilkerson of Norfolk.
Gov. Abigail Spanberger issued the order Wednesday, October 21. Flags are to be lowered at sunrise Thursday and remain at half-staff until sunset.
Wilkerson graduated from Maury High School in Norfolk and earned a bachelor’s degree in history from Virginia Commonwealth University. Inspired by her grandfather’s military service, she joined the Army Reserve after college, was commissioned as a second lieutenant, and served as a transportation officer before moving to active duty.
Her military career included service with the 1st Armored Division and the 25th Infantry Division. In 2023, she became company commander of the Huntington Beach Recruiting Company in California. At the time of her death, she served as the G4 supply and services chief with U.S. Army Central and Third Army at Shaw Air Force Base in South Carolina.
Wilkerson died September 18 while supporting overseas operations. She was promoted posthumously from captain to major, according to Army information reported by Task & Purpose.
Beyond her military career, Wilkerson was an accomplished musician and marathon runner who enjoyed hiking and traveling. She volunteered to help animals and was remembered by her family for her generosity and willingness to help others.
In her flag order, Spanberger offered condolences to Wilkerson’s family and said the Commonwealth honors her service to the nation, Virginia, and her community.
The half-staff order applies from sunrise until sunset on Thursday, October 22, at state and local government buildings and grounds throughout Virginia.
