Flags to fly at half-staff in Arizona to honor ex-Navajo Nation president

PHOENIX – Flags were ordered to fly at half-staff on all Arizona state buildings Wednesday to honor former Navajo Nation President Albert Hale, who died from coronavirus complications.

Gov. Doug Ducey said Tuesday shortly after Hale’s death was announced that flags would remain lowered from sunrise to sunset.

On the Navajo Nation, President Jonathan Nez called for flags to be flown at half-staff from Wednesday through Saturday.

Hale, who also served in the state Legislature, tested positive for the coronavirus in early January and was admitted to the hospital where he died, said his daughter, April Hale. He was 70.

Hale guided the Navajo Nation from 1995 to 1998, then served in the state Senate from 2004 to 2011, followed by a stint in the House from 2011 to 2017.

“Arizona is saddened by the loss of respected Navajo leader and former state legislator Albert Hale,” Ducey said in a press release.

“Hale proudly represented the Navajo Nation and state of Arizona for many years, and we are grateful for his dedication to serving others and contributions to our state.”

April Hale said the family is planning a drive-through memorial for their father but the details haven’t been finalized.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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