Ducey orders flags to half-staff to honor 19 killed in 2013 Yarnell Hill Fire

PHOENIX – Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey has ordered flags on state buildings to be flown at half-staff on Wednesday to honor the firefighters killed while battling the Yarnell Hill Fire in 2013.

“Arizona lost 19 heroic firefighters eight years ago to one of the most devastating wildfires in state history,” Ducey said in a press release.

“These brave men gave their all in defense of our communities, and their service remains among the greatest ever known to our state. We will never forget their sacrifice.”

Nineteen members of the Granite Mountain Hotshots crew died June 30, 2013, while fighting the fast-moving Yarnell Hill Fire, which was ignited by lightning in the Weaver Mountains southwest of Prescott two days earlier. One member survived.

“When the Yarnell Hill Fire struck, the Granite Mountain Hotshots defended Arizona communities against the flames without hesitation,” Ducey said.

“They didn’t shy away from their duties, and did everything they could to protect those in harm’s way.”

In 2016, Granite Mountain Hotshots Memorial State Park was dedicated in the area of the fire.

Two years later, the Granite Mountain Interagency Hotshot Crew Learning and Tribute Center opened at the Prescott Gateway Mall.

The center honors the crew’s legacy by telling their story and educating visitors about wildland fire prevention and suppression.

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