Governor Tina Kotek has decreed that flags at Oregon public institutions will be lowered to half-staff on Sunday in an act commemorating those who have given their lives while serving their communities, according to an announcement. This gesture aligns with the Presidential Proclamation to honor the memory of fallen firefighters during the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend.
The annual event, which will take place in Emmitsburg, Maryland, pays homage to those brave volunteer and professional firefighters who have died in the line of duty. “This weekend we honor the fallen firefighters who were lost in the line of duty – and we hold in our hearts the loved ones who miss them. We owe an untold debt to their courage and service to their communities,” Kotek said, acknowledging the sacrifices made by these individuals and the profound impact their loss has on their families and communities.
As Governor of Oregon, Kotek's directive ensures that the state stands in solidarity with this national observance, reflecting on the heroism and dedication of firefighters. The lowering of the flags serves not only as a symbol of mourning but also as a call to remember the unwavering commitment these men and women have to protecting lives and property, often placing themselves in harm's way to do so.
By taking part in this act of remembrance, institutions and citizens across the state are invited to share in the collective tribute to the memory of these heroes.
