Michigan flags at half staff for fallen firefighter, news anchor

LANSING, Mich. – Gov. Rick Snyder has ordered U.S. and Michigan flags to be lowered to half-staff on Thursday, March 2, on all state buildings and within the state Capitol complex in honor of Ron Savage, a volunteer firefighter with the Milford Fire Department and a news anchor for Fox 2 Detroit, who died Saturday, Feb. 25.

“Ron was a dedicated firefighter and reporter who will be remembered for his service and commitment to his community. I send my deepest condolences to his family, friends and colleagues during this difficult time,” Snyder said.

Savage worked with the Milford Fire Department since 2014 and had previously served as a firefighter for the Brighton Area Fire Department. He had been with Fox 2 Detroit since 1999 and co-anchored Fox 2 News Weekends. He was an Emmy Award-winning journalist and produced Michigan’s Most Wanted segments, highlighting crimes that needed to be solved.

A service in his honor will take place at 4 p.m. Thursday, March 2, at St. Mary Our Lady of the Snows Catholic Church located at 1955 E. Commerce in Milford.

This flag order is in accordance with Executive Order 2013-10. Michigan residents, businesses, schools, local governments and other organizations are encouraged to display the flag at half-staff. Flags should be returned to full staff on Friday, March 3.

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.