Flags lowered Monday for fallen MI soldier

Gov. Rick Snyder has ordered U.S. flags to be lowered to half-staff in honor of Gunnery Sgt. Daniel J. Price, of Zeeland, on Monday, Aug. 13. Flags should be returned to full-staff on Tuesday, Aug. 14.

Price, 27, died July 29 while conducting combat operations in Badghis province, Afghanistan.  He was assigned to the 1st Marine Special Operations Battalion, Camp Pendleton, Calif.

“Gunnery Sgt. Price has left an outstanding legacy of compassion and service for the citizens of west Michigan and the entire state to forever remember,” said Snyder. “My thoughts and sincere condolences go out to his wife, Rachel, and his entire family during this time.”

Immediately following his graduation from high school, Price joined the U.S. Marine Corps in July 2003. He enlisted in several special operations schools, including the Army Airborne School, and completed the combat water safety swimmer and combatant diver courses. Price served three tours of duty in Iraq, where he was promoted to sergeant, and three tours in Afghanistan. He received the Bronze Star with Combat V, a Purple Heart, three Combat Action Ribbons and three Good Conduct Medals.

Visitation will be from 1-4 p.m. and 6-9 p.m. today at the Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home in Holland. The funeral service is at 10 a.m. on Saturday at Central Wesleyan Church in Holland.

When flown at half-staff or half-mast, the U.S. flag should be hoisted first to the peak for an instant and then lowered to the half-staff or half-mast position. The flag should again be raised to the peak before it is lowered for the day.