Governor Doug Ducey has ordered flags at all state buildings be lowered to half-staff from sunrise to sunset Friday, July 31, 2020, to honor Arizona National Guard member and Phoenix Police Officer Robert Dwayne Bryant Jr., who died on Wednesday at a Tempe hospital following a training event.

Army 2nd Lieutenant Bryant was a traditional Guard member and assigned to the 850th Military Police Battalion of the Arizona National Guard located at Papago Park Military Reservation. He was commissioned through Arizona State University’s Reserve Officer Training Course in 2019. He was the recipient of the Minuteman Scholarship through the National Guard. Prior to commissioning, Bryant enlisted in the National Guard at the age of 17 serving as a Military Police Officer.

As a civilian, Bryant was also a member of the Phoenix Police Department, where he served since 2017.

“Arizona is deeply saddened by the loss of Army 2nd Lieutenant Robert Dwayne Bryant Jr.,” said Governor Ducey. “Bryant made service his calling, as a citizen-soldier of the Arizona National Guard and Phoenix Police Officer. He carried out his duties with excellence and honor — a model of what it truly means to serve one’s country and communities. His tragic loss is felt by many throughout our state. My deepest condolences go out to Bryant’s family, loved ones, and all those who served alongside him. In honor of his life and service, I’ve ordered flags at all state buildings be lowered to half-staff.”

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