LA State Order · Half-Staff
Flags at Half-Staff for Gurnie 'Tutie' Joseph Richard
August 22, 2026
Governor of Louisiana ordered flags at half-staff to honor Gurnie 'Tutie' Joseph Richard, a U.S. Army Air Forces Technician Fifth Grade from Vinton, Louisiana, who died as a prisoner of war during World War II on November 26, 1942, at age 22. After 84 years, Richard's remains have been returned home for a memorial service. The flag order marks this solemn occasion as the community gathers to honor his sacrifice and service.
Flag protocol
United States flags and Louisiana state flags shall be flown at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on August 22, 2026.
Source: gov.louisiana.gov