Flags in Kansas will be flown at half-staff this Sunday in observance of National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Day and to honor a Dearing firefighter.

 Governor Laura Kelly issued the directive today for all flags in the state to fly at half mast from sun up to sundown on Sunday. While the order honors all fallen firefighters, Kelly noted the service of Division Chief Martin Smith of the Dearing Fire Department. Division chief Smith passed away unexpectedly in January 2023 after responding to a vehicle accident.

Smith had a long career with the Dearing fire Department. He became a junior firefighter at the age of 16 and later served as a Volunteer Firefighter. He served as Assistant Chief for 26 years and became Chief of the Dearing Division in 2016. Smith had a reputation for being a strong leader, bringing many improvements to the Dearing Fire Department, and expected his volunteer firefighters to be well-trained professionals.

Governor Kelly stated, " “Division Chief Smith selflessly served the people of Montgomery County for nearly 50 years. We will not forget the sacrifices Division Chief Smith made and the work all Kansas firefighters undertake each day to protect Kansans.”