Whitmer orders flags to be lowered in honor of Hamilton fire chief killed in the line of duty
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has ordered U.S. and Michigan flags to be lowered to half-staff on Tuesday, Jan. 6, to honor the life and service of Hamilton Fire Chief David Haverdink, who died Christmas Day.
LANSING — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has ordered U.S. and Michigan flags to be lowered to half-staff on Tuesday, Jan. 6, to honor the life and service of Hamilton Fire Chief David Haverdink, who died Christmas Day.
Haverdink, 74, was struck by a passing vehicle while responding to a medical call on M-40 near 136th Avenue in Heath Township on Dec. 23. The 51-year veteran of the department succumbed to his injuries two days later.
Read More: Death of Hamilton fire chief gives solemn reminder of 'Move Over' law that protects first responders
“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 served the Hamilton Fire Department for 51 years, with almost 40 years as chief. In addition to his service, he worked for the Hamilton Distributing Co., eventually becoming president and co-owner. Haverdink also pursued a career in law enforcement, becoming a reserve deputy sheriff for Allegan County in 1980.
Please consider becoming a monthly donor!
Haverdink’s community service and involvement extended beyond his work in public service. In 1990, he became a member of the Allegan County Board of Commissioners, where he advocated for safety initiatives. In 1992, Haverdink successfully campaigned for Allegan County Sheriff and stayed in the role for eight years, advocating for the sheriff’s department and safety initiatives.
To lower flags to half-staff, flags should be hoisted first to the peak for an instant and then lowered to the half-staff position. The process is reversed before the flag is lowered for the day.
Flags should be returned to full-staff on Wednesday, Jan. 7.
Authorities have not yet released details regarding the driver involved as the investigation continues. A funeral for Haverdink is scheduled for Jan. 6.
— To submit a news tip, email newsroom@ottawanewsnetwork.org.
