Summary
Flags in Michigan, Massachusetts, and Maryland are lowered to half-staff to honor individuals who made significant contributions or sacrifices. Each state governor ordered the flags lowered for a day or until a specified time in memory of these people. The practice is a way to show respect for their service and dedication.
Key Facts
- Flags in Michigan, Massachusetts, and Maryland are at half-staff due to state orders.
- Michigan honors former State Senator Joel Gougeon, who served in the Air Force and was a public servant.
- Massachusetts honors Officer Stephen LaPorta, who died responding to a crash on January 7, 2026.
- Maryland honors Detective Paul Hoke, who died from a medical emergency while on duty.
- Michigan’s flags are lowered for one day, January 13, 2026, and will return to full-staff on January 14, 2026.
- In Massachusetts, flags will stay half-staff until Officer LaPorta's funeral on January 15, 2026.
- Maryland’s flags are lowered from sunrise to sunset on January 13, 2026.
- The lowering of flags is a traditional way to honor those who have served or sacrificed for their communities.
