Governors across six states have ordered flags lowered to half‑staff in the days ahead, marking losses that range from fallen service members to public officials and first responders.
The observances stretch across Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Pennsylvania and Ohio, spanning midweek tributes and weekend remembrances, with several flag orders remaining in effect until funeral arrangements are completed.
Idaho
Flags in Idaho are flying at half‑staff from March 19 through sunrise on March 23.
Governor Brad Little ordered the tribute at the State Capitol and state buildings in Canyon County to honor Nampa Mayor Rick Hogaboam, who died after suffering a medical emergency during a town hall meeting.
Iowa
Across Iowa, flags have been lowered since March 5 and will remain at half‑staff until sunset on the final day of interment.
The order honors Major Jeffery O’Brien and Sgt. Declan Coady, both Army Reserve soldiers who were killed while serving overseas in Port Shuaiba, Kuwait, in connection with the U.S. military campaign against Iran, dubbed Operation Epic Fury.
Governor Kim Reynolds encouraged residents, businesses and local governments to participate in the tribute for the same duration.
Kansas
In Kansas, flags throughout Sedgwick County will be flown at half‑staff from sunup to sundown on Saturday, March 21.
Governor Laura Kelly issued the order to honor former Kansas State Representative Melody McCray‑Miller, citing her decades of service as a teacher, professor, state lawmaker and county commissioner.
Minnesota
Minnesota flags are flying at half‑staff from sunrise on Wednesday, March 18, through sunset on Thursday, March 19.
Governor Tim Walz ordered the observance in honor of Deputy Fire Marshal Shawn Johnson of the Minnetonka Fire Department, who died earlier this month following a battle with cancer.
The state’s flags are also already lowered in honor of Sergeant First Class Nicole M. Amor, who was also killed in Kuwait during the current Middle East conflict between the U.S., Israel, and Iran, and will remain so until sunset on the day of her interment.
Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, Commonwealth flags have been lowered since March 14 and will remain at half‑staff until the date of interment.
Governor Josh Shapiro ordered the tribute to honor Pfc. Krystofer Lee Lopez, who died during a training incident at Letterkenny Army Depot on March 12.
Funeral services for Lopez are scheduled for March 28.
Ohio
Flags across Ohio have been flying at half‑staff since March 14 and will remain lowered until the day of interment.
Governor Mike DeWine issued the order to honor Air National Guard members Capt. Seth Koval, Capt. Curtis Angst and Tech. Sgt. Tyler Simmons, who were killed in Iraq while supporting military operations overseas, also during Operation Epic Fury.
Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced, according to local reports.
What People Are Saying
Idaho Governor Little said: “We are heartbroken over the sudden passing of Nampa Mayor Rick Hogaboam. Rick served with a genuine heart for public service and an unwavering commitment to the people of Nampa.
“He cared deeply about his community and worked every day to make it stronger and better for those he served. During this difficult time, our thoughts and prayers are with his family, city staff, and the entire Nampa community as they grieve this tremendous loss.”
Iowa Governor Reynolds said: “Our hearts are broken by the deaths of Major Jeffrey O’Brien and Sgt. Declan Coady, two brave Iowa soldiers who gave the ultimate sacrifice to secure freedom and peace.
“On behalf of a grateful state, Kevin and I offer our prayers and condolences for their families, and we ask all Iowans to stand united in support of our fallen soldiers and those who loved them.”
Kansas Governor Kelly said: “Melody McCray-Miller was revered by the Wichita community and dedicated her life to uplifting others as a teacher, professor, state representative, and county commissioner.
“My sincere condolences go out to her loved ones and the community during this difficult time.”
Minnesota Governor Walz said: “Deputy Fire Marshal Shawn Johnson dedicated his life to protecting others and strengthening the fire service across Minnesota.
“Through two decades of service, he mentored firefighters, safeguarded communities, and built lasting relationships grounded in trust and professionalism. I extend my deepest condolences to his family, the Minnetonka Fire Department, and the many colleagues and friends whose lives he touched.”
Ohio Governor DeWine said: “Fran and I join the rest of our state and nation in mourning the tragic deaths of three elite airmen from the Ohio Air National Guard’s 121st Air Refueling Wing in Columbus.
“Capt. Seth Koval, Capt. Curtis Angst, and Tech. Sgt. Tyler Simmons were trained to transfer fuel from one plane to another in midair, and their work was critical in long-distance missions in defense of our nation. Every mission they undertook involved risks that they were willing to take and the courage to put the lives of others above their own.
“They served with honor. We offer our deepest condolences to their families, as well as to the families of Maj. John A. Klinner, Capt. Ariana G. Savino, and Tech. Sgt. Ashley B. Pruitt from Alabama, who died alongside them. Their sacrifice will not be forgotten.”
