Walz Orders Flags at Half-Staff to Honor Minnesota’s Fallen Firefighters

Walz Orders Flags at Half-Staff to Honor Minnesota’s Fallen Firefighters

ST. PAUL, MN — Governor Tim Walz has directed that all United States and Minnesota flags at state buildings be flown at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Sunday, September 28, 2025, in honor of Minnesota firefighters who have been killed or injured in the line of duty. The directive is part of the annual observance of Minnesota Fallen Firefighters Memorial Day.

“Firefighters put their lives on the line every day to keep Minnesotans safe,” Governor Walz said. “We lower our flags to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their communities and to recognize the families who carry their legacy forward.”

The observance coincides with the annual memorial service held at the Minnesota Fallen Firefighter Memorial on the State Capitol grounds. This year’s ceremony, scheduled for 1 p.m. on Sunday, September 28, will feature the unveiling of six newly inscribed columns, increasing the total number of fallen firefighters commemorated at the memorial to 253. Among those being honored are:

• Laura Zumbusch-Wood, Victoria Fire Department, July 27, 2025
• Andrew Karels, Amboy Fire Department, June 2, 2025
• Chief Jason Gruett, Goodview Fire Department, March 12, 2025
• Gary Schroeder Jr., Zumbrota Fire Department, April 17, 2023
• Roland Limpert, Goodview Fire Department, October 31, 1965
• Assistant Chief Frederick Granzow, Duluth Fire Department, September 10, 1915

Governor Walz encourages all Minnesotans—individuals, businesses, and organizations—to participate by lowering their own flags in honor of the state’s fallen firefighters and their families.The Governor's proclamation can be found here.

For more information on the memorial and related events, visit the Minnesota Governor’s official website or the Minnesota Fire Service Foundation.

MinneapoliMedia