Honoring Richard Carlson
Jan 17th through (to be determined).
Governor Laura Kelly, in accordance with Executive Order #20-30, today directed flags be flown at half-staff in Pottawatomie, Jackson, and Wabaunsee Counties from sunup to sundown on Saturday, January 17, 2026, in honor of former Kansas State Representative and Kansas Department of Transportation Secretary Richard Carlson.
“Richard Carlson had a long career of public service, from his time serving in the Kansas Army National Guard to the Kansas Legislature and the Kansas Department of Transportation,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “My condolences go out to his friends, family, and former colleagues.”
Source: https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/KSOG/bulletins/404c738
Honoring Former Mayor Evora Wheeler
Jan 17th through (to be determined).
Governor Laura Kelly, in accordance with Executive Order #20-30, today directed flags be flown at half-staff in Lyon County, Kansas, from sunup to sundown on Saturday, January 17, 2026, in honor of former Mayor Evora Wheeler.
"For decades, Evora Wheeler was a committed leader in Emporia, from her time serving as mayor to her extensive community engagement," Governor Laura Kelly said. "My condolences go out to her loved ones and the community during this difficult time."
Source: https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/KSOG/bulletins/40497af
Honoring Former Attorney General Mark Brnovich
Jan 14th through (to be determined).
Flags should be lowered Jan. 14.
*HALF-STAFF NOTIFICATION*
Governor Katie Hobbs ordered flags at all state buildings be lowered to half-staff in honor of former Attorney General Mark Brnovich. He served for two terms as Arizona attorney general and also served as the director of the state Department of Gaming as well as a federal and Maricopa County prosecutor.
Individuals, businesses and other organizations are encouraged to join in this tribute.
To sign up for half-staff notifications, join our distribution list here ( https://az.gov/half-staff-notices ).
Congressman Doug LaMalfa
In honor of the late, GREAT, Congressman Doug LaMalfa, a true American Patriot and fantastic Representative of Northern California, yesterday I ordered all American Flags throughout the United States lowered to Half Mast until this evening. Doug will be dearly missed!
From President Trump posted on Truth Social, January 7, 2026.
Sergeant Michael L. Piro
Governor Kathy Hochul today directed that flags on all state government buildings be flown at half-staff in honor of retired New York State Police Sergeant Michael L. Piro.
“A distinguished member of the New York State Police, Sergeant Piro, stepped up to serve and protect his fellow New Yorkers when it was needed most,” Governor Hochul said. “I am profoundly grateful for Sergeant Piro and his dedication to keeping New York safe, and I join his family, colleagues, and community in honoring his life and service, and send my deepest condolences to those whose lives he touched.”
On January 6, Sergeant Piro passed away from an illness stemming from his assignment in and around the World Trade Center site following the 9/11 terrorist attack. He had retired after 30 years of dedicated service with the New York State Police on March 26, 2015.
Sergeant Piro is survived by his four children, and preceded in death by his wife, Cynthia.
Flags Lowered for Senator Joel Gougeon
Governor Gretchen Whitmer has ordered U.S. and Michigan flags within the State Capitol Complex to be lowered to half-staff on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, to honor and remember former state Senator Joel Gougeon.
“Senator Gougeon was a dedicated public servant who served his community admirably in the U.S. Air Force and the state Senate,” said Governor Whitmer. “My thoughts are with his family, friends, and all those who worked with and served alongside him.”
Former state Senator Joel Gougeon graduated from T.L. Handy High School and then earned a degree in mechanical engineering from General Motors Institute. After graduating, Gougeon served in the United States Air Force as an F-4 Phantom pilot. When he returned home, he founded Gougeon Brothers, Inc. with his brothers, Meade and Jan.
Gougeon served in the Michigan State Senate from 1993-2002 and also served on the Bay County Commissioners from 1984-1990. During his time in the Senate, he helped rewrite the Mental Health Code to reduce stigma and expand support for mental health research. After retiring from the Senate, Gougeon founded his own consulting company and continued to participate in community service.
The State of Michigan recognizes the duty, honor, and service of former state Senator Joel Gougeon by lowering flags to half-staff within the State Capitol Complex. To lower flags to half-staff, flags should be hoisted first to the peak for an instant and then lowered to the half-staff position. The process is reversed before the flag is lowered for the day.
Flags should be returned to full staff on Wednesday, January 14, 2026.
Source: https://www.michigan.gov/whitmer/news/press-releases/2021/01/11/governor-whitmer-lowers-flags-to-honor-two-u-s–capitol-police-officers
Gov. Healey Honors Officer LaPorta
I am heartbroken over the news of Officer Stephen LaPorta’s passing. He knew he was headed into a dangerous situation when he responded to the scene of a multi-vehicle crash, but like all of our officers do day in and day out, he put the public’s safety first – and he tragically made the ultimate sacrifice. My prayers are with his loved ones, the Uxbridge Police Department, and our brave law enforcement and public safety officials all across the state. I ask Massachusetts residents to take a moment today to reflect on the bravery of Officer LaPorta and thank members of law enforcement for all that they do to keep us safe.
Source: https://www.mass.gov/news/governor-healey-orders-flags-at-half-staff-in-honor-of-uxbridge-police-officer-stephen-laporta
Detective Paul Hoke Half-Staff
Flag Status Alert: United States Flag and Maryland Flag will be at Half-Staff This is to advise that Governor Wes Moore ordered the United States Flag lowered to half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Tuesday, January 13, 2026. This is the day of interment for Detective Paul Hoke of the Baltimore County Police Department who died on Friday, January 2, 2026, from a medical emergency suffered while in the line of duty on Wednesday, December 31, 2025. As a matter of protocol, the Maryland flag is lowered to half-staff as well. The Maryland flag is currently flying at half-staff. At sunset on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, the United States flag and Maryland flag should return to full-staff.
Source: https://sos.maryland.gov/Pages/Services/PastFlagStatus.aspx
Honoring Firefighter Andy Ziegler
Jan 10th through (to be determined).
Governor Tim Walz has ordered all United States and Minnesota flags to fly at half-staff at all state buildings in the State of Minnesota from sunrise until sunset on Saturday, January 10, 2026, in honor and remembrance of Firefighter Andy Ziegler, who tragically passed away on Sunday, December 28, 2025.
“Andy Ziegler lived every day with courage, compassion, and a commitment to others that few could match,” said Governor Walz. “Whether answering a call for help or spending time with his family, Andy gave his all. Minnesota mourns the loss of this extraordinary firefighter and community member. We extend our deepest condolences to his wife, Jojean, his children, grandchildren, family, friends, and fellow firefighters.”
Firefighter Ziegler served the Milaca Fire Department with distinction for 15 years. He was known for his unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of his community, his readiness to help anyone in need, and his steadfast dedication to his colleagues and neighbors. Beyond his work as a firefighter, Andy was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, whose humor, authenticity, and generosity left a lasting mark on everyone who knew him.
Individuals, businesses, and organizations are encouraged to join in honoring Firefighter Ziegler by lowering their flags.
Honoring Congressman Pat Williams
Jan 7th through (to be determined).
Gov. Gianforte ordered all flags in the state of Montana to flown at half-staff on Wednesday and Thursday in memory of Congressman Pat Williams. Williams will lie in state at the Montana State Capitol on Wednesday.