Gov. Tony Evers has ordered the flags to fly at half-staff June 7 in honor of former Oneida Nation Chairman Gerald “Jerry” Danforth.
Danforth died June 1 at the age of 78. Danforth served two terms as chairman in 1999 and 2005.
Evers signed Executive Order No. 265, ordering the flags of the United States and the state of Wisconsin to be flown at half-staff on June 7.
“Chairman Danforth led the Oneida Nation with integrity, dedication, and a deep commitment to upholding and protecting Tribal sovereignty and culture,” said Evers in a news release. “Kathy (Evers wife) and I are sending our deepest condolences to Chairman Danforth’s family and loved ones and the Oneida Nation as they mourn his passing.”
Services for Danforth will be held at 10 a.m. June 7 at the Oneida Turtle School.
Tehassi Hill, chairman of the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin, reflected on Danforth’s leadership. He said the two would often go golfing and share their experiences of life and tribal leadership.
“Continuing to build community relationships with the greater Green Bay area, I think was one of his focuses, and it continues to be one of my focuses,” Danforth told the Press-Gazette. “Making sure that we’re out there, meeting the people in the community, and being able to foster stronger relationships in the greater Green Bay area.”
How long will the flags be at half-staff?
Evers said the flags will fly at half-staff from sunrise to sunset June 7.
Where will flags be at half-staff in Wisconsin?
According to Evers’ order, the flags will be flown half-staff at all buildings, grounds and military installations in the state of Wisconsin.
Why do flags fly at half-staff?
Flags are flown at half-staff usually when a government official, a first responder or a military member dies. According to USA.gov, “The president, a state governor, or the mayor of the District of Columbia can order flags to fly at half-staff.” The flags can also be flown at half-staff for Memorial Day or other national days of remembrance, such as 9/11.
Rashad Alexander can be contacted at ralexander@gannett.com and 920-431-8214.
This article originally appeared on Green Bay Press-Gazette: Flags fly at half-staff June 7 honor of former Oneida Nation chairman