Governor Whitmer Lowers Flags in Honor of Captain Collin Birnie

Governor Gretchen Whitmer has ordered U.S. and Michigan flags within the State Capitol Complex and upon all public buildings and grounds across the state of Michigan to be lowered to half-staff on Friday, February 11, 2022 in honor of Flint Police Captain Collin Birnie who passed away in the line of duty . The flag-lowering will coincide with the date of his funeral.

“I want to offer my condolences to Captain Collin Birnie’s family, friends, and fellow officers. The state of Michigan is grateful for his decades of service and bravery,” said Governor Whitmer. “As we honor Captain Birnie’s service to the Flint community, my heart goes out to all those who knew him. We will work together to honor his legacy by continuing to have our law enforcement officers’ backs and making investments to protect public safety.”

Captain Collin Birnie served with the Flint Police Department for 26 years.

The State of Michigan recognizes the duty, honor, and selfless service of Captain Collin Birnie by lowering flags to half-staff. Michigan residents, businesses, schools, local governments, and other organizations also are encouraged to display the flag at half-staff.

To lower flags to half-staff, flags should be hoisted first to the peak for an instant and then lowered to the half-staff position. The process is reversed before the flag is lowered for the day.

Flags should be returned to full staff on Saturday, February 12, 2022.