Today, Governor Polis announced that all flags on state buildings will fly at half-staff on the memorials of three heroes: Emily Barker, Nick Hutcherson, and Sydney Watson, U.S. Wildland Fire Service wildland firefighters who died responding to the Snyder Mesa Fire burning in Mesa County. This fire is currently estimated to be over 28,000 acres. More details will follow once memorial dates are selected
The US Department of the Interior released the names of the fallen earlier this morning. Emily Barker, 38, of Clinton Township, Michigan, was assigned to the U.S. Forest Service Rifle Helitack. Nick Hutcherson, 27, of Glendale, Arizona, was assigned to the U.S. Forest Service Kaibab National Forest. Sydney Watson, 26, of Warrior, Alabama, was assigned to the U.S. Wildland Fire Service Rifle Helitack.
“Firefighters face incredible risk and put their lives on the line to respond to wildfires, keep Coloradans safe, and protect our communities. I was devastated to hear that Emily Barker, Nick Hutcherson, and Sydney Watson made the ultimate sacrifice to protect us. I and every Coloradan are deeply grateful for their bravery and service and my thoughts are with their families, friends and fellow crew members. I have ordered flags to fly at half-staff on the days of each of their memorials once selected to honor their sacrifice and service,” said Governor Polis.
On Saturday, Governor Polis verbally declared a disaster emergency in response to the Snyder Mesa Fire in Mesa County and authorized the National Guard to support efforts to recover the three firefighters who gave their lives in response to the Snyder Mesa Fire. The Governor also released a statement outlining the state's coordination with the U.S. Wildland Fire Service to rescue and evacuate two injured firefighters hurt in the line of duty with one of the Division of Fire Prevention and Control’s Bell 205 helicopters.
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Brief History
The tradition of flying a flag at half-staff began in the 17th century. Sometimes you'll hear "half-mast" but that is reserved for usage aboard a ship. The president can issue an executive order for the flag to be flown at half-staff, often upon the death of a notable figure or because of a tragic event. When such an order is issued, all government buildings, military bases, schools and offices are to lower their flags half-staff.
Why are other flags flown at half-staff? Because no flag can be placed above the flag of the United States. Governors of U.S. states and territories can also order U.S. and state flags to be flown at half-staff, often when a member of the armed forces dies in active duty or when a current or former state official dies.
Learn more about the flag and Flag Day, a day that celebrates that red, white and blue.
Flag Etiquette
Read about flag code and etiquette, opens a new window.
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