Flags will fly at full staff on Friday, September 17 to recognize Constitution Day and National POW/MIA Recognition Day. The new flag lowering date for Sgt. Barajas will be on Sunday, September 19.

Governor Whitmer has ordered U.S. and Michigan flags throughout the state of Michigan to be lowered to half-staff on Sunday, September 20 to honor the life and service of former Staff Sergeant Natalie Barajas. The flag honors will coincide with her funeral service.

“Our state mourns the passing of former Staff Sergeant Natalie Barajas,” Governor Whitmer said. “Staff Sergeant Barajas served her country honorably and inspired many with her dedication to helping others. I extend my deepest condolences to her family and loved ones as they lay her to rest.”

Barajas was born April 26, 1990 and graduated from Gaylord High School in 2008. She then joined the U.S. Army, where she served as a combat medic, orthopedic technician, clinic supervisor and staff sergeant. Her military career included deployments to Iraq and Germany. During her service she earned the Army Commendation Medal seven times, the Army Achievement Medal five times, the Army Good Conduct Medal three times, and the Iraq Campaign Medal.

Barajas passed away on Tuesday, May 12, 2020 at the age of 30 years old.

The State of Michigan recognizes the selfless leadership, determination and honor of Staff Sergeant Natalie Barajas. 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 Monday, September 21 unless otherwise notified.