Gov. Evers Orders Flags At Half Staff

Monday, November 15th, 2021 -- 8:39 AM

Gov. Tony Evers today signed Executive Order #140 ordering the flags of the United States and the state of Wisconsin to be flown at half-staff today, Monday, November 15th, in honor of Lt. Col. John A. Palese Jr. of West Bend, who lost his life in the line of duty after contracting COVID-19.

“The news of John’s passing is deeply tragic, and Kathy and I extend our condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues, and everyone who knew him,” said Gov. Evers. “We are thinking of them as they mourn John's passing and honor his memory.”

Palese passed away on Oct. 17, 2021, at the age of 66, after contracting COVID-19 in the line of duty. He served in the United States Air Force, United States Air Force Reserve, the 128th Aerial Refueling Wing of the Wisconsin Air National Guard, and in the Persian Gulf War. Palese also served as an American Airlines pilot, line check airman, federal flight deck officer, and as an aviation instructor.

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