By: Sam T. Jensen — [email protected]
Des Moines, IA — Many flags in the state of Iowa are flying at half-staff today.
This is to honor fallen U.S. sailor William J. Shanahan of Cedar Rapids. Shanahan was killed in action December 7th, 1941, when the USS Oklahoma was attacked by a Japanese aircraft at Pearl Harbor. His remains were only recently identified and returned home to Cedar Rapids.
Shanahan will be buried today with full military honors.
Governor Kim Reynolds (R-IA) ordered all flags in the state to fly at half-staff from sunrise to sunset. This includes the state Capitol Building, the Capitol Complex, and all public buildings, grounds and facilities. Individuals, schools, and other government agencies, while not required, are encouraged to fly the flag at half-staff as a sign of respect.