(Des Moines) Today, Governor Kim Reynolds ordered flags at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Friday, September 11, 2026, in honor of Patriots Day and in memory of those who lost their lives in the September 11th terrorist attacks 25 years ago. Among the nearly 3,000 people who died on September 11, 2001, there were eight known victims with connections to Iowa:
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James Cleere, 55, Newton, IA
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Karen Ann Kincaid, 40, Waverly, IA
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Mari-Rae Sopper, 35, formerly of Ames, IA
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Michael Tinley, 56, formerly of Council Bluffs, IA
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SPC Craig Scott Amundson, 28, Cedar Rapids, IA
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Lt. Col. Gary F. Smith, 55, Council Bluffs, IA
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Timothy Aaron Haviland, 41, formerly of Ames, IA
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Sandra Dawn Teague, 31, formerly of Des Moines and West Des Moines, IA
“Twenty-five years ago, a targeted attack against America shook the foundation of our country and tested its resiliency,” Governor Reynolds said. “Nearly 3,000 innocent lives—including at least eight Iowans—were tragically lost that day. On this solemn anniversary, we remember and honor them, and reaffirm our resolve to stand together against those who threaten our people and our ideals.”
Flags will be flown at half-staff on the State Capitol Building and on flag displays in the Capitol Complex. Flags will also be at half-staff on all public buildings, grounds, and facilities throughout the state.
Individuals, businesses, schools, municipalities, counties, and other government subdivisions are encouraged to fly the flag at half-staff for the same length of time as a sign of respect.
