Gov. John Kitzhaber has ordered all flags at public institutions to be flown at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Sunday, Aug. 18, in honor of Specialist Nickolas Welch.

“Spc. Welch is an example of the best of Oregon, and we are in debt to him for proudly serving our state and nation,” said Gov. Kitzhaber. “My thoughts are with his family and his unit during this difficult time. I ask all Oregonians to pause this Sunday to honor and remember Spc. Welch’s legacy of service and sacrifice.”