BATTLE CREEK, Mich. — U.S. and State of Michigan flags are at half-staff today, Tuesday, Jan. 6, by order of Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, in honor of fallen Hamilton Fire Department Chief, David Haverdink.
Chief Haverdink, 74, was on duty at the scene of a medical incident in Heath Township the evening of Dec. 23, when he was hit by a vehicle. He died at the hospital two days later on Dec. 25.
"Chief Haverdink was a proud family man and dedicated public servant. He was an example of the selflessness and dedication firefighters across Michigan demonstrate each and every day. Let’s honor this fallen hero and keep his family and the entire Hamilton Fire Department in our thoughts.” -Gov. Whitmer
To lower flags to half-staff, flags should be hoisted first to the peak for an instant and then lowered to the half-staff position. The process is reversed before the flag is lowered for the day.
Flags should be returned to full staff Wednesday, Jan. 7.
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