Flag Notifications

By a joint resolution approved on December 18, 2001, Public Law 107-89 designates September 11 of each year as Patriot Day. Also, pursuant to Section 9.134 RSMo., the United States flag and Missouri state flag shall be flown at half-staff at all government and public buildings from sunrise to sunset on Monday, September 11, 2023, in honor and recognition of the individuals who lost their lives as a result of the terrorist attacks against the United States that occurred on September 11, 2001.

State government departments are responsible for distributing this information throughout your department for compliance with this order. 

Sincerely,
OA-FMDC

President Joseph R. Biden has ordered the flag of the United States to be flown at half-staff at all government and public buildings throughout the United States until noon, May 29, 2023, in honor and recognition of all of our fallen service members.

You can access the proclamation here. State government departments are responsible for distributing this information throughout your department for compliance with this order.

Sincerely,
OA-FMDC

A Proclamation on Prayer For Peace, Memorial Day, 2023

On Memorial Day, we honor America’s beloved daughters and sons who gave their last full measure of devotion to this Nation. We can never fully repay the debt we owe these fallen heroes. But today, we vow to rededicate ourselves to the work for which they gave their lives, and we recommit to supporting the families, caregivers, and survivors they left behind.

For generations, stretching back to the formation of our country, these courageous people answered duty’s call, willing to give their lives for that which we all hold dear. They fought for our Independence. They defended our democracy. They sacrificed for our freedom. And today, as they lie in eternal peace, we continue to live by the light of liberty that they so bravely kept burning bright around the world.

This is always a day where pain and pride are mixed together. To all those who are mourning the loss of a service member — including America’s Gold Star Families — we see you and grieve with you. And we know that on this day especially, the pain of their absence can feel overwhelming. But for so many of you, that pain is wrapped around the knowledge that your loved one was part of something bigger than any of us; that they chose a life of mission and purpose; and that they dared all, risked all, and gave all to preserve and defend an idea unlike any other in human history: the United States of America.

These brave service members are not only the heart and soul of our country — they are the very spine. Today — and every day — we remember their service and ultimate sacrifice to our Nation. We reflect on our sacred and enduring vow to care for their families. And together, as we pause and pray, we pledge to continue defending freedom and democracy in their honor. May God bless our fallen heroes, and may God protect our troops.

In honor and recognition of all of our fallen service members, the Congress, by a joint resolution approved May 11, 1950, as amended (36 U.S.C. 116), has requested that the President issue a proclamation calling on the people of the United States to observe each Memorial Day as a day of prayer for permanent peace and designating a period on that day when the people of the United States might unite in prayer and reflection. The Congress, by Public Law 106-579, has also designated 3:00 p.m. local time on that day as a time for all Americans to observe, in their own way, the National Moment of Remembrance.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim Memorial Day, May 29, 2023, as a day of prayer for permanent peace, and I designate the hour beginning in each locality at 11:00 a.m. of that day as a time when people might unite in prayer and reflection. I urge the press, radio, television, and all other information media to cooperate in this observance. I further ask all Americans to observe the National Moment of Remembrance beginning at 3:00 p.m. local time on Memorial Day.

I request the Governors of the United States and its Commonwealths and Territories, and the appropriate officials of all units of government, to direct that the flag be flown at half-staff until noon on this Memorial Day on all buildings, grounds, and naval vessels throughout the United States and in all areas under its jurisdiction and control. I encourage families, friends, and neighbors to post tributes to our fallen service members through the Veterans Legacy Memorial at vlm.cem.va.gov so that we may learn more about the lives and contributions of those buried in National, State, and Tribal veteran cemeteries. I also request the people of the United States to display the flag at half-staff from their homes for the customary forenoon period.

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

JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

President Joseph R. Biden has ordered the flag of the United States to be flown at half-staff at all government and public buildings throughout the United States until sunset, May 11, 2023, in honor of the victims of the tragedy in Allen, Texas.

You can access the proclamation here. State government departments are responsible for distributing this information throughout your department for compliance with this order. 

Sincerely,

OA FMDC

A Proclamation on Honoring the Victims of the Tragedy in Allen, Texas

As a mark of respect for the victims of the senseless acts of violence perpetrated on May 6, 2023, in Allen, Texas, by the authority vested in me as President of the United States by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, I hereby order that the flag of the United States shall be flown at half-staff at the White House and upon all public buildings and grounds, at all military posts and naval stations, and on all naval vessels of the Federal Government in the District of Columbia and throughout the United States and its Territories and possessions until sunset, May 11, 2023. I also direct that the flag shall be flown at half-staff for the same length of time at all United States embassies, legations, consular offices, and other facilities abroad, including all military facilities and naval vessels and stations.

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

JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

Governor Mike Parson ordered that the flag of the United States and the flag of Missouri be flown at half-staff at all government buildings in the State of Missouri on Saturday, April 17, from sunrise to sunset in honor of Chief Warrant Officer 3 Zachary G. Esparza of the United States Army. 

You can access the proclamation here. State government departments are responsible for distributing this information throughout your department for compliance with this order. 

Sincerely,

OA FMDC

Governor Mike Parson ordered that the flag of the United States and the flag of Missouri be flown at half-staff at all government buildings in the State of Missouri on Saturday, April 15, from sunrise to sunset in honor of Chief Warrant Officer 2 Rusten Radford Smith of the United States Army. 

You can access the proclamation here. State government departments are responsible for distributing this information throughout your department for compliance with this order. 

Sincerely,

OA FMDC

President Joseph R. Biden has ordered the flag of the United States flown at half-staff at all government and public buildings throughout the United States until sunset, March 31, 2023, in honor of the victims of the tragedy in Nashville, Tennessee.

You can access the proclamation here. State government departments are responsible for distributing this information throughout your department for compliance with this order. 

Sincerely, 

OA-FMDC

A Proclamation on Honoring the Victims of the Tragedy in Nashville, Tennessee

As a mark of respect for the victims of the senseless acts of violence perpetrated on March 27, 2023, in Nashville, Tennessee, by the authority vested in me as President of the United States by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, I hereby order that the flag of the United States shall be flown at half-staff at the White House and upon all public buildings and grounds, at all military posts and naval stations, and on all naval vessels of the Federal Government in the District of Columbia and throughout the United States and its Territories and possessions until sunset, March 31, 2023. I also direct that the flag shall be flown at half-staff for the same length of time at all United States embassies, legations, consular offices, and other facilities abroad, including all military facilities and naval vessels and stations.

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

JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

Per Section 9.110, RSMo, Governor Parson is ordering that the flag of the United States and the flag of Missouri to be flown at half-staff over the State Capitol and at all government offices throughout Missouri on Wednesday, December 7, 2022, from sunrise to sunset for Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day.

State government departments are responsible for distributing this information throughout your department for compliance. Attached is the Governor's proclamation. You can also view it here. 

Brian Yansen 

Director, OA FMDC

Pursuant to 4 USC 7 (m), the flags of the United States are to be lowered to half-staff in honor of the passing of U.S. Representative Donald McEachin from Virginia. The flags are at half-staff at the White House complex and will remain there until midnight on November 30, 2022. 

State government departments are responsible for distributing this information throughout your department for compliance.

Brian Yansen 
Director, OA FMDC

By order of the President of the United States, the U.S. flag shall be flown at half-staff at all government buildings statewide, until sunset, on the day of interment in respect for the memory of Queen Elizabeth II. 

State government departments are responsible for distributing this information throughout your department for compliance with this order. You can find the proclamation from the President here. 

Brenda Verslues,
Acting Director, OA FMDC

A Proclamation on the Death of Queen Elizabeth II

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II was more than a monarch. She defined an era.

In a world of constant change, she was a steadying presence and a source of comfort and pride for generations of Britons, including many who have never known their country without her. Queen Elizabeth II led always with grace, an unwavering commitment to duty, and the incomparable power of her example. She was a stateswoman of unmatched dignity and constancy who deepened the bedrock Alliance between the United Kingdom and the United States. She helped make our relationship special. The seven decades of her history-making reign bore witness to an age of unprecedented human advancement and the forward march of human dignity. Her legacy will loom large in the pages of British history, and in the story of our world. 

As a mark of respect for the memory of Queen Elizabeth II, by the authority vested in me as President of the United States by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, I hereby order that the flag of the United States shall be flown at half-staff at the White House and upon all public buildings and grounds, at all military posts and naval stations, and on all naval vessels of the Federal Government in the District of Columbia and throughout the United States and its Territories and possessions until sunset, on the day of interment. I also direct that the flag shall be flown at half-staff for the same length of time at all United States embassies, legations, consular offices, and other facilities abroad, including all military facilities and naval vessels and stations.

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

 JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

Pursuant to 4 USC 7 (m), the flags of the United States are to be lowered to half-staff in honor of the passing of U.S. Representative Jackie Walorski from Indiana. The flags are at half-staff at the White House complex and will remain there until midnight on August 4, 2022. 

State government departments are responsible for distributing this information throughout your department for compliance.

Brenda Verslues
Interim Director, OA FMDC

Acting Governor Mike Kehoe ordered the U.S. and Missouri flags to be flown at half-staff at government buildings in Clay and Jackson counties on Wednesday, July 27, 2022, from sunrise to sunset, to honor North Kansas City Police Department Officer Daniel F. Vasquez.

State government departments are responsible for distributing this information throughout your department for compliance with the order. You can find the proclamation here. 

Brenda Verslues, 
Interim Director, OA FMDC

FLAGS ORDERED TO FLY AT HALF-STAFF ON JULY 27, 2022, IN HONOR OF OFFICER DANIEL VASQUEZ

WHEREAS, Daniel Francisco Vasquez worked from March 11, 2019 until July 26, 2020 as a civilian detention officer with the Kansas City Police Department; and

WHEREAS, Officer Daniel Francisco Vasquez began his career with the North Kansas City Police Department when he entered the Kansas City Regional Police Academy on January 4, 2021, and graduated on July 8, 2021; and

WHEREAS, upon receiving his Missouri Peace Officer license on July 8, 2021, Officer Vasquez was commissioned by the North Kansas City Police Department; and

WHEREAS, throughout his tenure with the North Kansas City Police Department, Officer Vasquez was a model officer who was committed to honorably serving the people of North Kansas City; and

WHEREAS, while on duty on July 19, 2022, Officer Vasquez initiated a vehicle stop of a motorist for an expired temporary vehicle registration and, while approaching the vehicle, was ambushed and mortally wounded; and

WHEREAS, on July 19, 2022, Officer Vasquez was posthumously awarded the North Kansas City Police Department Medal of Valor; and

WHEREAS, law enforcement officers courageously and unselfishly strive to ensure the safety and well-being of their fellow citizens; and

WHEREAS, the people of the State of Missouri are thankful for the brave individuals in law enforcement who consider the welfare of others a personal responsibility and work tirelessly to protect the lives and property of their fellow citizens.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Mike Kehoe, upon the express authorization of Governor Michael L. Parson, and while serving as Acting Governor, as a mark of respect for the death of

OFFICER DANIEL FRANCISCO VASQUEZ

and for his bravery and service to the North Kansas City Police Department do hereby order that the flag of the United States and the flag of Missouri shall be flown at half-staff at all government buildings in the counties of Clay and Jackson, Missouri, for one full day on July 27, 2022, from sunrise to sunset.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused to be affixed the Great Seal of the State of Missouri, in the City of Jefferson, this 26th day of July, 2022

Mike Kehoe,
Acting Governor 

By order of the President of the United States, the U.S. flag shall be flown at half-staff at all government buildings statewide, immediately until sunset, July 9, 2022 as a mark of respect for the victims of the senseless acts of gun violence perpetrated on our Independence Day, July 4 2022, in Highland Park, Illinois.

State government departments are responsible for distributing this information throughout your department for compliance with this order. You can find the proclamation from the President here.

Brenda Verslues,
Interim Director, OA FMDC

Proclamation on Honoring The Victims Of The Tragedy In Highland Park, Illinois

As a mark of respect for the victims of the senseless acts of gun violence perpetrated on our Independence Day, July 4, 2022, in Highland Park, Illinois, by the authority vested in me as President of the United States by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, I hereby order that the flag of the United States shall be flown at half-staff at the White House and upon all public buildings and grounds, at all military posts and naval stations, and on all naval vessels of the Federal Government in the District of Columbia and throughout the United States and its Territories and possessions until sunset, July 9, 2022. I also direct that the flag shall be flown at half-staff for the same length of time at all United States embassies, legations, consular offices, and other facilities abroad, including all military facilities and naval vessels and stations.

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

JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

By order of the President of the United States, the U.S. flag shall be flown at half-staff at all government buildings statewide, immediately until sunset May 28, 2022 as a mark of respect for the victims of the senseless acts of violence perpetrated on May 24, 2022, by a gunman at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas.

State government departments are responsible for distributing this information throughout your department for compliance with this order. You can find the proclamation from the President here.

Mark Hill,
Director, OA FMDC

A Proclamation Honoring The Victims Of The Tragedy In Uvalde, Texas

As a mark of respect for the victims of the senseless acts of violence perpetrated on May 24, 2022, by a gunman at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, by the authority vested in me as President of the United States by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, I hereby order that the flag of the United States shall be flown at half-staff at the White House and upon all public buildings and grounds, at all military posts and naval stations, and on all naval vessels of the Federal Government in the District of Columbia and throughout the United States and its Territories and possessions until sunset, May 28, 2022. I also direct that the flag shall be flown at half-staff for the same length of time at all United States embassies, legations, consular offices, and other facilities abroad, including all military facilities and naval vessels and stations.

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

JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

By order of the President of the United States, the U.S. flag shall be flown at half-staff at all government buildings statewide, immediately until sunset May 16, 2022 in memory of the one million American lives lost to COVID-19 and their loved ones left behind.

State government departments are responsible for distributing this information throughout your department for compliance with this order. You can find the proclamation from the President here. 

Mark Hill,
Director, OA FMDC

A Proclamation on Remembering the 1,000,000 Americans Lost to COVID-⁠19

Today, we mark a tragic milestone: one million American lives lost to COVID-19. One million empty chairs around the dinner table. Each an irreplaceable loss. Each leaving behind a family, a community, and a Nation forever changed because of this pandemic. Jill and I pray for each of them.

As a Nation, we must not grow numb to such sorrow. To heal, we must remember. We must remain vigilant against this pandemic and do everything we can to save as many lives as possible. In remembrance, let us draw strength from each other as fellow Americans. For while we have been humbled, we never give up. We can and will do this together as the United States of America.

In memory of the one million American lives lost to COVID-19 and their loved ones left behind, I hereby order, by the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, that the flag of the United States shall be flown at half-staff at the White House and on all public buildings and grounds, at all military posts and naval stations, and on all naval vessels of the Federal Government in the District of Columbia and throughout the United States and its Territories and possessions until sunset May 16, 2022. I also direct that the flag shall be flown at half-staff for the same period at all United States embassies, legations, consular offices, and other facilities abroad, including all military facilities and naval vessels and stations.

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

JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

Governor Mike Parson has ordered U.S. and Missouri flags be flown at half-staff at all government buildings in St. Francois County, Missouri, for one full day on March 27, 2022, from sunrise to sunset in honor of Bonne Terre Patrolman Lane A. Burns.

State government departments are responsible for distributing this information throughout your department for compliance with this order. You can find the proclamation here.

Mark Hill,
Director, OA FMDC

Governor Parson Orders Flags to Fly at Half-Staff in Honor of Bonne Terre Patrolman Lane Burns

WHEREAS, Lane A. Burns graduated from Mineral Area College Law Enforcement Academy on June 11, 2012 and was issued a Missouri Peace Officer License that same day; and

WHEREAS, Lane A. Burns began his career as a law enforcement officer when he was commissioned as a full-time police officer by the Leadwood Police Department on September 15, 2014 and would subsequently go on to hold full-time commissions with the St. Francois County Sheriffs Office and the Leadington Police Department; and

WHEREAS, Lane A. Burns was commissioned as a full-time patrolman with the Bonne Terre Police Department on May 10, 2017; and

WHEREAS, on March 17, 2022, Patrolman Burns was on duty with the Bonne Terre Police Department when he was dispatched to a local motel for a disturbance call, where he was ambushed and mortally wounded by a gunman; and

WHEREAS, Patrolman Burns, though mortally wounded, and another Bonne Terre Police Officer, who was critically wounded, courageously returned fire, fatally shooting the gunman; and

WHEREAS, law enforcement officers courageously and selflessly strive to ensure the safety and well-being of their fellow citizens; and

WHEREAS, the people of the State of Missouri are thankful for the brave individuals in law enforcement who consider the welfare of others a personal responsibility and work tirelessly to protect the lives and the property of their fellow citizens.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Michael L. Parson, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF MISSOURI, as a mark of respect for the death of

PATROLMAN LANE A. BURNS

and for his bravery and service to the Bonne Terre Police Department do hereby order that the flag of the United States and the flag of Missouri shall be flown at half-staff at all government buildings in St. Francois County, Missouri, for one full day on March 27, 2022, from sunrise to sunset.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused to be affixed the Great Seal of the State of Missouri, in the City of Jefferson, this 26th day of March, 2022.

Michael L. Parson

Governor Mike Parson ordered U.S. and Missouri flags be flown at half-staff at all government buildings in Greene County, the Fire Fighters Memorial of Missouri in Kingdom City, and firehouses statewide on Friday, March 25, from sunrise to sunset in honor of Ebenezer Fire Protection District Firefighter Dustin W. Brandhorst. 

State government departments are responsible for distributing this information throughout your department for compliance with this order. You can find the proclamation here. 

Mark Hill, Director, OA FMDC

Governor Parson Orders Flags to Fly at Half-Staff in Honor of Ebenezer Fire Protection District Firefighter Dustin Brandhorst

WHEREAS, Dustin W. Brandhorst began his service in Missouri's fire service with the Strafford Fire Protection District and served there for four years as a volunteer firefighter; and

WHEREAS, Firefighter Brandhorst had served for three years as a volunteer firefighter with the Ebenezer Fire Protection District; and

WHEREAS, Firefighter Brandhorst was committed to developing his firefighting skills, and while serving in the Ebenezer Fire Protection District, he completed more than 780 hours of training; and

WHEREAS, during his tenure, Firefighter Brandhorst responded to fires, motor vehicle injury-accidents, and positively impacted many people, contributing to a safer community; and

WHEREAS, on March 18, 2022, while responding to a structure fire in Fair Grove, Missouri, in an Ebenezer Fire Protection District firetruck, Firefighter Brandhorst died in the line of duty; and

WHEREAS, firefighters courageously and unselfishly strive to ensure the safety and well-being of their fellow citizens; and

WHEREAS, the people of the State of Missouri are thankful for the brave individuals in public safety professions who consider the welfare of others a personal responsibility and work tirelessly to protect the lives and the property of their fellow citizens.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Michael L. Parson, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF MISSOURI, as a mark of respect for the death of

FIREFIGHTER DUSTIN W. BRANDHORST

and for his bravery and service to the Ebenezer Fire Protection District do hereby order that the flag of the United States and the flag of Missouri shall be flown at half-staff at every fire station in the State of Missouri and at the Fire Fighters Memorial, located in Kingdom City, Missouri, and at all government buildings in Greene County, Missouri from sunrise until sunset on March 25, 2022.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused to be affixed the Great Seal of the State of Missouri, in the City of Jefferson, this 24th day of March, 2022.

Michael L. Parson

By order of the President of the United States, the U.S. flag shall be flown at half-staff at all government buildings statewide, immediately and return to full staff at sunset on Sunday, March 27, 2022 in honor of former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright.

State government departments are responsible for distributing this information throughout your department for compliance with this order. You can find the proclamation from the President here.

Mark Hill,
Director, OA FMDC

President Biden Orders Flag to Fly at Half-Staff in Honor of former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright

DEATH OF MADELEINE KORBEL ALBRIGHT
- - - - - - -
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

Madeleine Albright was a force. She defied convention and broke barriers again and again. She was an immigrant fleeing persecution. A refugee in need of safe haven. And like so many before her -- and after -- she was proudly American.

As the devoted mother of three beloved daughters, she worked tirelessly raising them while earning her doctorate degree and starting her career in American diplomacy. She took her talents first to the Senate as a staffer for Senator Edmund Muskie followed by the National Security Council under President Carter. And then to the United Nations where she served as United States Ambassador, and ultimately, made history as our first woman Secretary of State, appointed by President Clinton. A scholar, teacher, bestselling author, and later accomplished business woman, she always believed America was the indispensable Nation, and inspired the next generation of public servants to follow her lead, including countless women leaders around the world. Madeleine was always a force for goodness, grace, and decency -- and for freedom.

As a mark of respect for former Secretary of State Madeleine Korbel Albright and her life of service to our Nation, I hereby order, by the authority vested in me as President of the United States by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, that the flag of the United States shall be flown at half-staff at the White House and upon all public buildings and grounds, at all military posts and naval stations, and on all naval vessels of the Federal Government in the District of Columbia and throughout the United States and its Territories and possessions until sunset on March 27, 2022. I also direct that the flag shall be flown at half-staff for the same length of time at all United States embassies, legations, consular offices, and other facilities abroad, including all military facilities and naval vessels and stations.

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

Joseph R. Biden JR.

Acting Governor Mike Kehoe ordered U.S. and Missouri flags be flown at half-staff at all government buildings in Jasper and Newton counties on Friday, March 18, 2022, from sunrise to sunset in honor of Joplin Police Officer Jake Reed. 

State government departments are responsible for distributing this information throughout your department for compliance with this order. You can find the proclamation here. 

Mark Hill,
Director, OA FMDC

Acting Governor Kehoe Orders Flags to Fly at Half-Staff in Honor of Joplin Police Department Officer Jake Reed

WHEREAS, Jake Reed graduated from Missouri Southern State University Law Enforcement Academy on May 11, 2017, earned his Missouri Peace Officer license that same day, and was commissioned by the Joplin Police Department as a police officer on May 12, 2017; and

WHEREAS, throughout his tenure with the Joplin Police Department, Officer Reed served honorably and demonstrated a strong commitment to protecting others, even if it meant putting his own life at risk; and

WHEREAS, on March 8, 2022, Officer Reed and Corporal Benjamin Lee Cooper bravely responded to a disturbance call at a shopping center in the 400 block of Geneva A venue in Joplin, and Officer Reed was gravely wounded as the officers attempted to take a gunman into custody; and

WHEREAS, on March 11, 2022, Officer Reed succumbed to his injuries; and WHEREAS, law enforcement officers courageously and selflessly strive to ensure the safety and well-being of their fellow citizens; and

WHEREAS, the people of the State of Missouri are thankful for the brave individuals in law enforcement who consider the welfare of others a personal responsibility and work tirelessly to protect the lives and property of their fellow citizens; and

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Mike Kehoe, upon express authorization of Governor Michael L. Parson, and while serving as Acting Governor, as a mark of respect for the death of

OFFICER JAKE REED

and for his bravery and service to the Joplin Police Department do hereby order that the flag of the United States and the flag of Missouri shall be flown at half-staff at all government buildings in the counties of Jasper and Newton, Missouri, for one full day on March 18, 2022, from sunrise to sunset.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused to be affixed the Great Seal of the State of Missouri, in the City of Jefferson, this 17th day of March, 2022.

Acting Governor Mike Kehoe ordered U.S. and Missouri flags be flown at half-staff at all government buildings in Jasper and Newton counties on Tuesday, March 15, 2022, from sunrise to sunset in honor of Joplin Police Corporal Benjamin Lee Cooper.

State government departments are responsible for distributing this information throughout your department for compliance with this order. 

Mark Hill,
Director, OA FMDC

FLAGS ORDERED TO FLY AT HALF-STAFF ON MARCH 15, 2022, IN HONOR OF CORPORAL BENJAMIN COOPER

WHEREAS, Benjamin Lee Cooper enlisted in the U.S. Army and served honorably from 1995 to 2001; and

WHEREAS, Benjamin Lee Cooper graduated from Missouri Southern State University Law Enforcement Academy on December 11, 2003, earned his Missouri Peace Officer license that same day, and was commissioned by the Joplin Police Department as a police officer on February 1, 2004; and

WHEREAS, after almost five years of service, Officer Cooper left the Joplin Police Department in December 2008 to serve as a deputy sheriff in the State of Colorado; and WHEREAS, after returning to the State of Missouri, Officer Cooper was once again commissioned by the Joplin Police Department on June 17, 2013, and throughout his honorable service, he demonstrated a strong commitment to protecting others, even if it meant putting his own life at risk; and

WHEREAS, in 2016, Benjamin Lee Cooper was promoted to the rank of corporal; and WHEREAS, on March 8, 2022, Corporal Cooper and Officer Jake Reed bravely responded to a disturbance call at a shopping center in the 400 block of Geneva A venue in Joplin and was mortally wounded as the officers attempted to take a gunman into custody; and

WHEREAS, law enforcement officers courageously and selflessly strive to ensure the safety and well-being of their fellow citizens; and

WHEREAS, the people of the State of Missouri are thankful for the brave individuals in law enforcement who consider the welfare of others a personal responsibility and work tirelessly to protect the lives and property of their fellow citizens.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Mike Kehoe, upon express authorization of Governor Michael L. Parson, and while serving as Acting Governor, as a mark of respect for the death of

CORPORAL BENJAMIN LEE COOPER

and for his bravery and service to the Joplin Police Department do hereby order that the flag of the United States and the flag of Missouri shall be flown at half-staff at all government buildings in the counties of Jasper and Newton, Missouri, for one full day on March 15, 2022, from sunrise to sunset.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused to be affixed the Great Seal of the State of Missouri, in of Jefferson, this 14th day of March, 2022.

By order of the President of the United States, effective immediately, the U.S. flag shall be flown at half-staff at all government buildings statewide, until midnight tonight in honor of the passing of US Representative Jim Hagedorn from Minnesota.

State government departments are responsible for distributing this information throughout your department for compliance with this order.

Mark Hill,
Director, OA FMDC

By order of the Governor of the State of Missouri, U.S. and Missouri flags shall be flown at half-staff at all government buildings in the city of St. Louis, the Fire Fighters Memorial of Missouri in Kingdom City, and firehouses statewide on Thursday, January 20, from sunrise to sunset in honor of St. Louis Fire Department Firefighter Benjamin James Polson. 

State government departments are responsible for distributing this information throughout your department for compliance with this order. You can find the proclamation from the Governor here.

Mark Hill
Director, OA FMDC

Governor Parson Orders Flags to Fly at Half-Staff in Honor of St. Louis Fire Department Firefighter Benjamin Polson

WHEREAS, in November 2019, Benjamin James Polson entered the St. Louis Fire Academy's Kenneth G. Smith, Sr. Memorial Recruit Class and graduated with the class on March 20, 2020; and

WHEREAS, on January 13, 2022, Firefighter Polson was among the brave St. Louis Fire Department firefighters who responded to a two-and-a-half-story brick structure fire in the Hamilton Heights neighborhood of St. Louis; and

WHEREAS, after conducting a rapid primary search for victims and quickly extinguishing flames on the first floor, Firefighter Polson was among the firefighters who advanced to the second floor to search for victims and continue fighting the blaze; and

WHEREAS, Firefighter Polson was killed in the line of duty when the roof and top story of the structure collapsed, burying him; and

WHEREAS, firefighters courageously and selflessly devote their lives to ensuring the safety and well-being of their fellow citizens; and

WHEREAS, the people of the State of Missouri are thankful for the sacrifices of the brave emergency responders who risk their own lives to protect the lives and property of their fellow citizens.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Michael L. Parson, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF MISSOURI, as a mark of respect for the death of

FIREFIGHTER BENJAMIN JAMES POLSON

and for his bravery and service to the St. Louis Fire Department and the citizens of St. Louis do hereby order that the flag of the United States and the flag of Missouri shall be flown at half-staff at every fire station in the State of Missouri, at the Fire Fighters Memorial located in Kingdom City, Missouri, and at all government buildings in the independent City of St. Louis from sunrise until sunset on January 20, 2022.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused to be affixed the Great Seal of the State of Missouri, in the City of Jefferson, this 19th day of January, 2022.

Michael L. Parson

By order of the President of the United States, the U.S. flag shall be flown at half-staff at all government buildings statewide, for one full day on January 13, 2022, beginning at midnight tonight and return to full staff at sunset in honor of former Senator Harry Reid.

State government departments are responsible for distributing this information throughout your department for compliance with this order. You can find the proclamation from the President here.

Mark Hill,
Director, OA FMDC

DEATH OF HARRY REID

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BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

From humble roots in Searchlight, Nevada, Harry Reid rose to become one of the great Senate Majority Leaders in American history. He was a man of action, and a man of his word -- guided by faith, loyalty, and unshakeable resolve.

Throughout his long career of public service, Harry Reid was instrumental in passing landmark legislation that made a positive difference in the lives of countless Americans and made our Nation stronger and safer. His devoted service to our Nation was not about power for power's sake. It was about the power to do right by the American people.

As a mark of respect for his memory, I hereby order, by the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, that on the day of his interment, the flag of the United States shall be flown at half-staff at the White House and upon all public buildings and grounds, at all military posts and naval stations, and on all naval vessels of the Federal Government in the District of Columbia and throughout the United States and its Territories and possessions until sunset on such day. I also direct that the flag shall be flown at half-staff for the same period at all United States embassies, legations, consular offices, and other facilities abroad, including all military facilities and naval vessels and stations.

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

JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

In honor of the life and legacy of Senator Harry Reid, President Biden has ordered the flag to be flown at half-staff on the day of his interment, which will be confirmed at a later date. An updated notice will be sent at a later date. 

State government departments are responsible for distributing this information throughout your department for compliance with this order. You can find the proclamation from the President here.

Mark Hill Director, OA FMDC

DEATH OF HARRY REID

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA A PROCLAMATION

From humble roots in Searchlight, Nevada, Harry Reid rose to become one of the great Senate Majority Leaders in American history. He was a man of action, and a man of his word -- guided by faith, loyalty, and unshakeable resolve. Throughout his long career of public service, Harry Reid was instrumental in passing landmark legislation that made a positive difference in the lives of countless Americans and made our Nation stronger and safer. His devoted service to our Nation was not about power for power's sake. It was about the power to do right
by the American people.

As a mark of respect for his memory, I hereby order, by the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, that on the day of his interment, the flag of the United States shall be flown at half-staff at the White House and upon all public buildings and grounds, at all military posts and naval stations, and on all naval vessels of the Federal Government in the District of Columbia and throughout the United States and its Territories and possessions until sunset on such day. I also direct that the flag shall be flown at half-staff
for the same period at all United States embassies, legations, consular offices, and other facilities abroad, including all military facilities and naval vessels and stations.

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

JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR

By order of the Governor of the State of Missouri, U.S. and Missouri flags should be flown at half-staff at all government buildings in Boone County, the Firefighter Memorial of Missouri in Kingdom City, and firehouses statewide on Tuesday, December 28, 2021, from sunrise to sunset in honor of Boone County Fire Protection District Assistant Chief Bryant Gladney. 

State government departments are responsible for distributing this information throughout your department for compliance with this order. You can find the proclamation from the Governor here.

Mark Hill
Director, OA FMDC

Governor Parson Orders Flags to Fly at Half-Staff in Honor of Boone County Fire Protection Assistant Chief Bryant Gladney

WHEREAS, Bryant E. Gladney began his fire service career as a volunteer firefighter with the Boone County Fire Protection District in 1986 and was promoted to Lieutenant of Station 1 in 1994; and

WHEREAS, Lieutenant Gladney was hired by the Fire District to serve as the EMS Education Program Manager in 2011 and was promoted to Captain in 2015; and

WHEREAS, in 2020 Captain Gladney was promoted to Assistant Chief and was assigned to lead the EMS Bureau, and in 2021 assumed responsibilities for the Fire District's Training Bureau, serving as Bureau Director, and he also served as one of four Fire District Duty Chiefs; and

WHEREAS, in the early morning darkness on December 22, 2021, Assistant Chief Gladney was among the selfless first responders who responded to a motor vehicle accident on Interstate 70 westbound, east of Columbia, near Route Z, and while Assistant Chief Gladney and other Boone County Fire Protection District and EMS personnel worked at the accident scene a tractor trailer struck fire service and EMS vehicles, killing Assistant Chief Gladney in the line of duty; and

WHEREAS, Assistant Chief Gladney had been honored with the 25-year service award with the Boone County Fire Protection District and was an original member of Missouri Task Force I - ·serving as a Technical Team Manager, and was deployed to New York City in the aftermath of9/ l l and Hurricane Isabel in 2003; and

WHEREAS, throughout his 25-year career, Assistant Chief Gladney was dedicated to mentoring and training younger members of the fire service so that they could carry out their duty of protecting the public; and

WHEREAS, firefighters courageously and selflessly devote their lives to ensuring the safety and well-being of their fellow citizens; and WHEREAS, the people of the State of Missouri are thankful for the sacrifices of the brave emergency responders who risk their own lives to protect the lives and property of their fellow citizens.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Michael L. Parson, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF MISSOURI, as a mark of respect for the death of

ASSISTANT CHIEF BRYANT E. GLADNEY

and for his bravery and service to the Boone County Fire Protection District and the citizens of Boone County do hereby order that the flag of the United States and the flag of Missouri shall be flown at half-staff at every fire station in the State of Missouri and at the Fire Fighters Memorial, located in Kingdom City, Missouri, and at all government buildings in Boone County from sunrise until sunset on December 28, 2021.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused to be affixed the Great Seal of the State of Missouri, in th f efferson, this 27th day of December, 2021.

President Biden has amended Proclamation 10320, Death of Robert J. Dole, ordering the flag to be flown at half-staff through midnight Saturday, December 11, 2021.

State government departments are responsible for distributing this information throughout your department for compliance with this order. You can find the proclamation from the President here. 

Mark Hill, Director
OA FMDC

AMENDING PROCLAMATION 10320, DEATH OF ROBERT J. DOLE

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

By the authority vested in me as President of the United States by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, and in order to extend the display of the flag at half-staff as a mark of respect for Robert Joseph Dole, it is hereby ordered that Proclamation 10320 of December 3, 2021, is amended by deleting in the first sentence the words "until sunset on December 9, 2021" and inserting in their place the words "through Saturday, December 11."

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

JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.