Gov. Tony Evers today signed Executive Order #140 ordering the flags of the United States and the state of Wisconsin to be flown at half-staff on Mon., Nov. 15, 2021, in honor of Lt. Col. John A. Palese Jr. of West Bend, who lost his life in the line of duty after contracting COVID-19.

“The news of John’s passing is deeply tragic, and Kathy and I extend our condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues, and everyone who knew him,” said Gov. Evers. “We are thinking of them as they mourn John's passing and honor his memory.”

Palese passed away on Oct. 17, 2021, at the age of 66, after contracting COVID-19 in the line of duty. He served in the United States Air Force, United States Air Force Reserve, the 128th Aerial Refueling Wing of the Wisconsin Air National Guard, and in the Persian Gulf War. Palese also served as an American Airlines pilot, line check airman, federal flight deck officer, and as an aviation instructor. After retiring from American Airlines and the Wisconsin Air National Guard, Palese became a law enforcement officer, serving his community most recently as administrative captain for the Town of Hartford Police Department.

Interment with military honors will be held on Mon., Nov. 15, 2021, in Union Grove.

Executive Order #140 will be in effect from sunrise to sunset on Mon., Nov. 15, 2021.