Gov. Kim Reynolds has ordered flags to half-staff tomorrow (Friday), May 6 for the Iowa Peace Officer Memorial Ceremony. Flags will be lowered from sunrise to sunset in memory of the two officers to be honored during the ceremony: Iowa State Patrol Sergeant, Jim K. Smith, and Iowa State Patrol Trooper, Ted Benda. Smith was shot and killed in April of 2021 while attempting to arrest a suspect who had assaulted and disarmed another officer during a traffic stop near Grundy Center. Benda died in October of 2021 from injuries sustained in a traffic accident while on duty in Clayton County. Reynolds says, “These two officers gave their lives in one of the noblest causes there is – one defined by an unrelenting determination to put others above self. Iowa will remember their service and sacrifice with enduring gratitude. While our state continues to grieve the loss of such wonderful men – devoted husbands, fathers, and members of their communities – we also take intense pride in the selfless heroism they both displayed in their roles.” Flags will be at half-staff on the State Capitol Building, on flag displays in the Capitol Complex, and on all public buildings, grounds, and facilities throughout the state. Individuals, businesses, schools, municipalities, counties, and other government subdivisions are encouraged to fly the flag at half-staff for the same length of time as a sign of respect.
