Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe has ordered that U.S. and Missouri flags in Cape Girardeau County, the Fire Fighters Memorial of Missouri in Kingdom City, and at firehouses throughout the state be lowered to half-staff today. The directive, issued in remembrance of Whitewater Fire Protection District Chief Garry Moore, calls for the flags to display at half-mast from sunrise to sunset today, as a mark of respect for the late fire chief's devotion and service to his community and nation.
This solemn act, detailed on the official state website, comes as a response to the tragic passing of Chief Moore. Governor Kehoe, accompanied by his wife Claudia, extended his condolences, saying, "Garry Moore’s life was devoted to serving his community, state and nation.” He went on to note the foundational role of selfless individuals like Moore in building strong Missouri communities. The Governor also shared that he and his spouse keep Chief Moore's family and community in their prayers during this harrowing period.
Chief Moore, who was 68, had a long and distinguished career. His service encompassed two decades in the U.S. Navy, where he initially joined the fire service. Following his retirement from the Navy, Moore became part of the Whitewater Fire Protection District. His dedication and skills quickly led to his promotion to the chief position, where he dedicated more than 30 years to responding to emergencies and fires.
The events leading to Chief Moore's death were sudden and tragic. On April 2, as he responded to widespread destruction in the Delta, Missouri area in the aftermath of an EF-2 tornado, he was fatally injured while assisting a stranded vehicle.
