Wednesday, Nov. 25, 2015
LANSING, Mich. - Gov. Rick Snyder has ordered U.S. and Michigan flags to be lowered to half-staff within the State Capitol Complex and on all state buildings on Monday, November 30 in honor of fallen firefighter, Sgt. Vince Smith, who died Thursday, November 19.
“Our firefighters choose to work in a stressful and dangerous field, putting themselves in harm’s way to protect our families and communities,” Snyder said. “Vince was greatly respected by his fellow colleagues. On behalf of all Michiganders, I thank Vince for his decades of service and send my thoughts and prayers to his family, friends, and community.”
Smith, was found unresponsive in the Detroit Fire Station, where he served for more than two decades, earning the rank of sergeant. A New Jersey native, Smith, 49, moved to Michigan to begin his career with the Detroit Fire Department in August 2002. He is survived by his wife, Chareese.
A service is planned for Saturday, November 28 at 11 a.m. at theGreater Life Apostolic Church in Detroit, located at 5276 Tireman. Visitation is planned for Friday, November 27, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. at the James H. Cole Home for Funerals-NW Chapel at 16100 Schaefer Hwy. in Detroit.
This flag order is in accordance with Executive Order 2013-10. Michigan residents, businesses, schools, local governments and other organizations are encouraged to display the flag at half-staff. Flags should be returned to full-staff on Tuesday, December 1.
When flown at half-staff or half-mast, the U.S. flag should be hoisted first to the peak for an instant and then lowered to the half-staff or half-mast position. The flag should again be raised to the peak before it is lowered for the day.
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