Flags ordered at half-staff in honor of Red Wing corrections officer

Gov. Tim Walz has ordered flags to be flown at half-staff Friday in remembrance of a Red Wing corrections officer.

Officer Lee Michael Hackbarth served 20 years at the Minnesota Correctional Facility in Red Wing. He died on Dec. 10 after falling ill in the line of duty.

Walz’s order calls for all U.S. and state flags to be flown at half-staff at state buildings from sunrise until sunset on Friday in honor of Hackbarth. Individuals, businesses and other organizations are encouraged to follow suit.

“Officer Hackbarth was a dedicated Corrections Officer who was respected by his family, friends, and colleagues,” Walz’s proclamation states. “With its deepest gratitude, the State of Minnesota recognizes Officer Hackbarth for his dedicated service to, and sacrifice for, his fellow Minnesotans, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and community.”