Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has ordered all U.S. and Michigan flags to be lowered to half-staff on Tuesday to honor the late David Haverdink, who died on Christmas after being hit by a vehicle while on duty as the chief of the Hamilton Fire Department (HFD).
Haverdink, 74, was on the scene of a medical incident on M-40 near 136th Avenue in Heath Township around 6 p.m. on Dec. 23 when he was hit by the vehicle, according to HFD. He died at the hospital two days later on Christmas.
All U.S. and Michigan flags within the State Capitol Complex as well as all public buildings and grounds across the state should be lowered, according to Whitmer’s office.
“Chief Haverdink was a proud family man and dedicated public servant,” Whitmer said. “He was an example of the selflessness and dedication firefighters across Michigan demonstrate each and every day. Let’s honor this fallen hero and keep his family and the entire Hamilton Fire Department in our thoughts.”
Haverdink was with HFD for 51 years and served as the chief for more than 40 of those years. He also served as sheriff of the Allegan County Sheriff’s Office for eight years, firefighters said.
In 1990, Whitmer said he became a member of the Allegan County Board of Commissioners where he advocated for safety initiatives.
“The State of Michigan recognizes the duty, honor, and selfless service of Chief Haverdink by lowering flags to half-staff,” Whitmer’s office wrote in a news release. “Michigan residents, businesses, schools, local governments, and other organizations also are encouraged to display the flag at half-staff.”
