Everyday across Delaware, thousands of firefighters serve their communities and protect the public by responding to not only fires but almost any emergency situation. Sunday, October 4 has been recognized by Congress as the day US and State flags are to be flown at half-staff in recognition of the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Day. Governor Carney requests those state facilities staffed on that day to participate in this observance.

By a joint resolution approved 12/18/2001, (Public Law 107-89) September 11th of each year has been designated as “Patriot Day”. This law also directs the flags be lowered to half-staff for the entire day on September 11th.

In concurrence with this directive, Governor Carney has ordered the U. S. and Delaware flags be flown at half staff beginning at the start of business tomorrow, September 11, 2018. Flags should be returned to full staff the start of business Wednesday, September 12, 2018.

Senator John McCain proudly served his country as a Navy aviator during the Vietnam War and as a statesman representing the State of Arizona in the U.S. House and Senate for over thirty years.

In remembrance of the life and service of Senator McCain, Governor Carney has ordered the U.S. and Delaware flags to half staff effective immediately. Flags are to be returned to full staff at sunset Sunday, September 2, the day of Senator McCain’s interment.

WILMINGTON, Del. – On Peace Officers Memorial Day, Monday, May 15, the State of Delaware pays tribute to the local, state, and Federal peace officers who have died, or who have been disabled, in the line of duty.  In accordance with federal law, Governor Carney requests that the Delaware and United States flags be lowered to half-staff the morning of Monday, May 15 and then returned to full-staff at the end of the day.

“Thank you to all of Delaware’s peace officers who serve our great state and perform an often difficult job on behalf of the rest of us,” said Governor Carney. “Delaware’s entire law enforcement community has rallied together during what has been a difficult few months. We especially remember Lieutenant Steven Floyd and Corporal Stephen J. Ballard who gave their lives in the line of duty. We should remain grateful every day for the work performed by of all of Delaware’s law enforcement officers.”

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WILMINGTON, Del. – Governor Carney this evening ordered both the U.S. and State flags to be flown at half-staff in memory of fallen Delaware State Police Corporal Stephen J. Ballard.  Corporal Ballard was killed this afternoon valiantly protecting the community and fellow Delawareans in the line of duty.

Governor Carney issued the following statement on the death of Corporal Stephen J. Ballard:

“One of our sworn Troopers has lost his life performing a duty on behalf of the people of Delaware,” said Governor Carney. “My heart is with Corporal Ballard’s family and the officers who have served beside him. Delaware’s law enforcement officers go to work every day knowing they put their lives on the line to protect ours. We are incredibly indebted to their bravery and service.”

Flags are to remain at half-staff until further notice.

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