NEWARK, N.J. -- Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump is ordering that the flags on his U.S. properties lowered to honour the five service members killed in last week's shooting in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

The businessman and former reality TV star has been under fire for mocking Sen. John McCain's reputation as a war hero for his service in Vietnam. The North Vietnamese captured McCain after plane he piloted was shot down. He was held for five years.

Trumps remarks have sparked widespread criticism from fellow Republicans and veterans groups.

His campaign released a statement on Tuesday criticizing President Barack Obama for not ordering American flags lowered to honour the four marines and a sailor killed in the shooting.

The statement says Trump has long been a supporter of the military and veterans.