Gov: Flags to half-staff for fallen Ore. firefighter

Gov. John Kitzhaber on Tuesday ordered all flags at public institutions to be flown at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Wednesday in honor of John Percin, Jr.

“John Percin, Jr., was a graduate of West Linn High School and a member of one of the country’s distinguished hotshot fire crews,” said Governor Kitzhaber.

“He gave his life fighting a destructive fire in Arizona, along with 18 other men performing critical but dangerous work to protect people, property, and natural resources.

“My thoughts are with his family and friends, and I urge all Oregonians totake a moment to remember John, his bravery, and his noble sacrifice.”