Phoenix, Arizona - Governor Doug Ducey issued a statement in recognition of the president's proclamation lowering the flags to half-staff to honor our nation’s brave firefighters, including and especially the 67 brave men and women who have already died this year across the country while protecting our communities.

“The deaths of 67 firefighters is 67 too many,” said Governor Ducey. “Sixty-seven too many innocent lives lost. Sixty-seven too many families now without their loved ones.”

“The people of Arizona, each year facing a fire season that is all too real, have seen the courage, audacity, and selflessness that firefighters display each and every day.

“We cannot possibly thank these men and women enough for consistently putting their own lives at risk, without even blinking, to keep our communities safe. I urge all Arizonans to pray with me for the families of our lost firefighters whose service and sacrifice will not be forgotten.

“In coordination with the presidential proclamation, I have ordered that flags at all state buildings be lowered to half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Sunday, October 9, 2016, in honor of these American heroes.”