Detective Paul Hoke Half-Staff

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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

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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.

Source: https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2026/01/09/file_attachments/3516223/01.10.2026%20Andy%20Ziegler.pdf

Honoring Former Senate President Steve Morris

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Jan 4th through (to be determined).

Governor Laura Kelly, in accordance with Executive Order #20-30, today ordered flags throughout Finney, Grant, Hamilton, Kearny, Morton, Stanton, Stevens, Haskell, Greeley, and Wichita counties be flown at half-staff from sunup to sundown on Sunday, January 4, 2026, in honor of Former Kansas Senate President Steve Morris.

“From his time serving our country in the United States Air Force, to his years of service on the Hugoton Board of Education and tenure as President of the Kansas State Senate, Steve Morris was a principled and pragmatic leader,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “His commonsense and commitment moved Kansas forward. My deepest condolences go out to his family and loved ones.”

Source: https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/KSOG/bulletins/4024610

Victims of the French Quarter Terrorism Attack

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Beginning January 1, 2026, the State of Louisiana will observe a four-day period of mourning and reflection to mark the one-year anniversary of the terrorist attack on Bourbon Street.
This state-mandated period commemorates the 14 people killed and dozens injured on January 1, 2025, when an attacker drove a vehicle into a crowd of New Year’s Eve revelers. 
Commemoration Details
Governor Jeff Landry’s executive order includes several specific observances throughout the four days: 
  • Half-Staff Flags: All flags across the state will fly at half-staff from January 1 through January 4, 2026.
  • Daily Honors: Each day of the mourning period focuses on a different group impacted by the tragedy:
    • Jan. 1: Honoring those who lost their lives.
    • Jan. 2: Honoring the survivors of the attack.
    • Jan. 3: Honoring first responders, law enforcement, and medical personnel.
    • Jan. 4: Recognizing the broader community and all those impacted.
  • Statewide Bell Ringing: On January 4 at 3:15 p.m. (following a moment of silence), churches and public buildings are encouraged to ring their bells 14 times to honor the 14 lives lost.
  • Symbolic Colors: Residents are encouraged to incorporate green and yellow—representing harmony and renewal—into their memorials and lighting displays. 
Memorial Installations
A temporary public art memorial called “Second Line in the Sky” is currently on view in the French Quarter. Located across the 100–300 blocks of Bourbon Street, the installation features illuminated elements and over 800 prayer flags. It will remain on display until January 18, 2026. Additionally, a French Quarter Terrorism Attack Memorial Commission has been established to recommend a site for a permanent memorial.