Governor Katie Hobbs has ordered flags at all state buildings to be lowered to half-staff from sunrise until sunset on June 30 in honor of the Granite Mountain Interagency Hotshot Crew. During the Yarnell Hill Fire in 2013, 19 of the 20 members of this highly trained and specialized wildland firefighter crew tragically died in the line of duty.

The Governor released the following statement:

“Hotshot crews take on dangerous and difficult firefighting to keep Arizona communities safe. We recognize and honor the sacrifice and bravery of the Granite Mountain Hotshots. This will always be a day we mark with mourning, reflection, and deep admiration for the members of this crew, their families, and the wildland firefighting community.”

Arizona State Parks is hosting a remembrance event(link is external) on June 30 at 4:15 p.m. in downtown Yarnell. You can learn more about the firefighters who perished in the largest loss of life among firefighters since 9/11 at the Granite Mountain Hotshots Memorial Park website.

Individuals, businesses and other organizations are encouraged to join in this tribute.