Flags in Iowa will be at half-staff through the weekend for two reasons. Yesterday (Thursday), Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds issued an order to lower flags from sunrise to sunset on Friday, Oct. 27, in honor of Anthony “Tony” Hoffman, a 17-year veteran of the Ionia Volunteer Fire Department who died in a traffic accident while responding to a field fire on Oct. 22. Reynolds says, “Anthony Hoffman’s service and dedication to the Ionia community will never be forgotten. Iowa is stronger because of Anthony Hoffman, who volunteered to put his life on the line to protect his community. As we lower flags, let’s honor his legacy and service.” Flags will also remain lowered through sunset on Sunday, Oct. 30, in conjunction with a proclamation from President Joe Biden in remembrance of the 18 people killed and 13 injured in the Lewiston, Maine, shooting earlier this week. Flags will be at half-staff on the State Capitol Building, and flag displays in the Capitol Complex. Flags will also be half-staff on all public buildings, grounds, and facilities throughout the state. Individuals, businesses, schools, municipalities, counties, and other government subdivisions are encouraged to fly the flags at half-staff for the same length of time.
