Governor Ned Lamont today announced that he is directing U.S. and state flags in Connecticut to be lowered to half-staff as a mark of solemn respect for Connecticut State Police Trooper First Class Eugene Kenneth Baron, Jr, who passed away on Monday, May 25, 2020, following a courageous battle with cancer as a result of his response and service in support of New York City in the aftermath of the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. His passing is classified as a line of duty death.

Flags should be lowered immediately and remain lowered until sunset on the date of interment, which is scheduled for Saturday, May 30. Accordingly, since no flag should fly higher than the U.S. flag, all other flags, including state, municipal, corporate, or otherwise, should also be lowered during this same duration of time.

“Trooper Baron is a hero who not only dedicated his career to protecting the people of Connecticut, but he did not hesitate when called to respond to one of the worst attacks in our nation’s history,” Governor Lamont said. “He embodies the definition of public service and what it means to lead a career with integrity, respect, and generosity. On behalf of the entire State of Connecticut, I extend my deepest sympathies to Trooper Baron’s family, friends, and his brothers and sisters at the Connecticut State Police. I ask the people of Connecticut to keep Trooper Baron and his family in their prayers.”

“Trooper Baron dedicated his life to protecting others, both here in Connecticut and beyond our state’s borders,” Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz said. “He answered the call of duty in response to the September 11 terrorist attacks, putting his own life at risk to help search for survivors. His tremendous courage and bravery will never be forgotten.”

Trooper Baron, along with other members of the Traffic Services Unit of the Connecticut State Police, responded to the World Trade Center immediately following the attacks to search for possible survivors and serve as a liaison to Connecticut families.

He entered the State Police Training Academy in November 1989 and graduated in April 1990. His first assignment was at Troop A in Southbury, followed by Troop G in Bridgeport and then the State Police Traffic Services Unit. Trooper Baron served with the Connecticut State Police for a total of 18 years, leaving with a partial disability retirement in 2007. He is survived by his three children, his partner and her two children, two sisters, and his parents.