By Trish Svoboda

In line with Executive Order #20-30, Governor Laura Kelly has ordered that flags across Kansas be lowered to half-staff from dawn to dusk on Sunday, May 5, 2024. This is in observance of National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Day and to pay tribute to Division Chief Martin Smith of the Dearing Fire Department in Montgomery County.

“Our first responders work tirelessly every day to ensure the safety of our communities,” said Governor Laura Kelly. “Division Chief Smith selflessly served the people of Montgomery County for nearly 50 years. We will not forget the sacrifices Division Chief Smith made and the work all Kansas firefighters undertake each day to protect Kansans.”

Division Chief Smith lost his life in January 2023 while attending to a motor vehicle accident during his service. The directive to lower the flags is a tribute to him and all fallen firefighters.