DENVER (KDVR) — Flags across the U.S. are flying at half-staff on Sunday to honor some of the bravest Americans who risked their own lives to protect their neighbors.
It’s part of the annual National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend, which is accompanied by an event held in Emmitsburg, Maryland, to commemorate the lives of volunteer and professional firefighters who have died in the line of duty over the past year and beyond.
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“Across the country, brave men and women demonstrate heroism each day, willingly placing themselves in harm’s way for the benefit of others,” reads a proclamation made by President Donald Trump on May 1. “We are indebted to every American who chooses this noble profession — this solemn calling — in spite of the inherent risks.”
The proclamation notes the heroic efforts of firefighters on and after Sept. 11, 2001, as well as the destructive and deadly wildfires in southern California earlier this year. Trump also spoke of one firefighter whom he said will “forever hold a profound place in my life.”
“Corey Comperatore, who lost his life shielding his family from the barrage of assassin’s bullets that pierced the air during my rally last July in Butler, Pennsylvania,” Trump wrote in his proclamation. “His bravery and selflessness on that fateful day exemplify the dedication and courage that define America’s cadre of firefighters.”
People carry a painting of Corey Comperatore off the stage before Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump speaks at a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show, Saturday, Oct. 5, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson)
Trump ordered that all U.S. flags be flown at half-staff at all Federal office buildings on May 3 and May 4. Governors throughout the country, including Colorado’s Gov. Jared Polis, have also ordered flags to be flown at half-staff, from sunrise to sunset, in alignment with Trump’s proclamation.
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“This is a time to reflect and remember those and their families who have made the ultimate sacrifice to protect our communities in the face of devastating events. In Colorado, we value the hard work and dedication of our firefighters to make sure communities are prepared, protected, and informed during emergencies. We honor our fallen firefighters by ensuring their legacies and loved ones are cared for here in Colorado, ” said Polis in the announcement of his order.
Flags were previously flown at half-staff for about a week in April due to the death of Pope Francis.
