Governor Laura Kelly Directs Flags be Flown at Half-staff to Honor National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Day

TOPEKA – In accordance with Executive Order 20-30, and in recognition of the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Day on Sunday, October 3, 2021, Governor Laura Kelly has ordered flags throughout the State of Kansas to be flown at half-staff from sunup to sundown on October 3.

“This year, we lost three brave firefighters dedicated to protecting their communities from harm,” said Governor Laura Kelly. “On National Fallen Firefighters Memorial day, it is our responsibility to remember their lives and sacrifice and pay our respects to their families and loved ones.”

The honor is extended for all fallen firefighters – including firefighter Johnny Ivison Jr. of Easton, Kansas, who died in November 2020 responding to a house fire in Leavenworth County; Joshua Schwindt, who passed away in August 2021 after being electrocuted while responding to the scene of an accident; and Michael Baker, the Assistant Fire Chief in the 190th Air Refueling Wing in the Air National Guard, who died in September 2021 from complications caused by COVID-19.

“Johnny Ivison Jr., Joshua Schwindt, and Michael Baker paid the ultimate price in service to their communities. They will not be forgotten,” said Governor Laura Kelly.

To receive email alerts when the governor orders flags to half-staff, please visit: https://governor.kansas.gov/newsroom/kansas-flag-honor.