Flags to fly half-staff on anniversary of Yarnell hotshots’ deaths

PHOENIX – Flags on state buildings in Arizona will be lowered to half-staff Tuesday, on the seventh anniversary of the deaths of the Granite Mountain Hotshots firefighters.

A crew of 19 died fighting the lightning-caused Yarnell Hill wildfire near Prescott. Only one team member survived the blaze that started June 28.

“They had families, loved ones and friends who cared deeply about them,” Gov. Doug Ducey said in a press release.

“They knew the dangers of their job, but they did it anyway, with courage and an abiding sense of duty and commitment to our communities. They represent all that is best about Arizona, and we will forever remember and honor their sacrifices.”

The city is marking the day with a virtual remembrance at 4:30 p.m.

7 years ago today we lost the Granite Mountain Hotshots at the Yarnell Hill Fire. Please keep these 19 men in your memory as they paid the ultimate sacrifice protecting lives and property in AZ. Always remembered and never forgotten. #GMHS19 pic.twitter.com/1JPm269ePv

— AZ Fire & Medical (@AZFireAuthority) June 30, 2020

In Prescott, the Yavapai County Courthouse Plaza will ring the courthouse bell 19 times, beginning at 4:42 p.m., the Daily Courier reported.

A state park honoring the Granite Mountain Hotshots opened in November 2016.

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