DES MOINES, Iowa (KCRG) – Governor Reynolds has ordered flags to fly at half-staff today (Thursday), for National Peace Officers Memorial Day. The Governor says “Today, we pay tribute to two sets of heroes. We honor those with the courage to wear the badge, accepting all the dangers and sacrifices it entails, even, potentially, the ultimate sacrifice. And we honor their loved ones who have the courage to share the people most precious to them for the sake of a better world.”

She added, “To the families of officers killed in duty, the gratitude we owe you is unbounded. Your loved ones have left a legacy that lives on in the communities they served, in the lives they protected, and in the hearts of those who carry their memory forward. They remind us that peace is not promised—it is preserved by men and women of courage.”

All flags at public facilities will fly at half-staff today. That includes at the State Capitol Building. All others are encouraged to fly the flag at half-staff as a sign of respect. The Iowa Peace Officer Memorial site has flown its flags at half-staff since Sunday. Flags will continue to fly at half-staff through Saturday in honor of National Police Week.