October 11, 2014

GOV. MALLOY: FLAGS TO FLY HALF-STAFF SUNDAY IN RECOGNITION OF NATIONAL FALLEN FIREFIGHTER MEMORIAL SERVICE

State Flags Have Also Been at Half-Staff in Honor of Fallen Hartford Firefighter Kevin Bell

(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy today announced that in accordance to a proclamation from President Barack Obama , both U.S. and state flags will fly at half-staff on Sunday, October 12, 2014, in recognition of the annual National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service, which honors the sacrifices of firefighters throughout the country for their service.

State flags have also been flying at half-staff for the past several days in honor of Hartford firefighter Kevin Bell, who lost his life battling a fire on Tuesday night. They will be raised to full staff at sunset on Monday, October 13, following his funeral.

"Firefighters contribute so much to the foundation of our communities. Their resilience, courage and bravery keep all of us safe, and we are forever grateful for the sacrifices they make to protect our neighborhoods," Governor Malloy said. "This year, the national observance honoring fallen firefighters happens to come at a time when we are mourning the loss of a Hartford firefighter who gave his life serving his home city. We are keeping the Bell family in our prayers, as well as the families of those who were injured while fighting that blaze. We will never forget the sacrifices that they have made to protect and serve our cities and our state."

"We are deeply grateful to our firefighters and the families who support them in this work," Lt. Governor Nancy Wyman said. "Every time they are called, these first responders put service before self. They are community leaders and guardians of the public safety. Today, we reflect on our fallen firefighters and mourn with their families, friends, and firefighter brothers and sisters; and our prayers are with the Bell family and friends as they cope with the devastating loss of Kevin, a Hartford hero."

National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service marks the final day of national Fire Prevention Week.

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For Immediate Release: October 11, 2014

Facebook: Office of Governor Dannel P. Malloy