Gov. Kim Reynolds has ordered all flags in Iowa lowered to half-staff Friday in honor of Iowa State Patrol Sgt. Jim Smith, who was killed during a standoff in Grundy Center on Friday, April 9. The order to lower flags from sunrise to sunset was issued Thursday afternoon to coincide with Sgt. Smith’s funeral Friday in Independence. Flags will be at half-staff on the State Capitol Building, on flag displays in the Capitol Complex and at all public buildings, grounds and facilities throughout the state. Reynolds says, “Flags will fly at half-staff this Friday to honor and remember the heroic life of Iowa State Patrol Sgt. Jim Smith. The thoughts and prayers of a grateful state are with everyone who knew and loved him, including his brothers and sisters of the Iowa State Patrol. Sgt. Smith leaves behind a distinguished legacy of service to our state and his selfless sacrifice in defense of the innocent will never be forgotten.” Individuals, businesses, schools, municipalities, counties and other government subdivisions are encouraged to fly flags at half-staff for the same length of time as a sign of respect.
