4 May 2005

Governor directs flags to be lowered in honor of fallen law enforcement officers

In commemoration of the Kansas Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony on Friday, May 6, and National Peace Officer’s Memorial Day on Sunday, May 15, Governor Kathleen Sebelius has ordered flags on state buildings be flown at half-staff on each of those days.

“We have tragically lost two Kansas law enforcement officers in the line of duty this year,” said Governor Sebelius. “Every time a law enforcement officer shows up for work, he or she faces potential injury or death in service to fellow Kansans. I urge all Kansans to remember those we have lost in the line of duty, especially Sheriff Matt Samuels and Deputy Sheriff Kurt Ford. In addition, I encourage Kansans to pray for the families of our fallen officers and for those who continue to put themselves in harm’s way.”

On May 6, Governor Sebelius will take part in the Kansas Law Enforcement Memorial Service at noon on the South steps of the Statehouse to honor individuals who died while protecting Kansans. Greenwood County Sheriff Matt Samuels will be honored this year, while the family of Harvey County Deputy Kurt Ford has requested that he be honored at next year’s ceremony.

In addition, H.J. Res. 730, P.L. 87-726 designates May 15 of each year as National Peace Officer’s Memorial Day.