All United States flags and Minnesota flags to be flown at half-staff at all State and Federal buildings in Minnesota, from sunrise until sunset, on Thursday, July 11, in honor and remembrance of Conservation Officer Shannon Lee Barron.
The proclamation from Governor Walz reads as follows:
WHEREAS: Red Lake Nation Conservation Officer Shannon “Opie” Barron provided 23 years of dedicated service to the Red Lake Nation, first as a police officer then as a conservation officer; and
WHEREAS: Conservation Officer Barron was an outstanding conservation officer who was admired and respected by his colleagues, and served with dignity and pride; and
WHEREAS: Conservation Officer Barron was passionate about fishing, hunting, trapping, and his culture; was driven to protect the Red Lake Nation’s natural resources; loved to cook and tell jokes; and always stood ready to help those in need, including his fellow Red Lake Nation law enforcement officers and the Nation’s people; and
WHEREAS: Conservation Officer Barron died in the line of duty on Sunday, July 7, 2019; and
WHEREAS: Conservation Officer Barron is survived by his wife Laura; children, Amanda and Drew; aunt, Rosie; sisters, Holly Jean and Maryanne; brother, Verto; and many other relatives and friends; and
WHEREAS: A celebration of Shannon’s life, with public safety honors, will be held on Thursday, July 11, 2019, at the Humanities Center in Red Lake; and
WHEREAS: The State of Minnesota recognizes Conservation Officer Barron for his dedicated service to, and sacrifice for, his fellow citizens with its deepest gratitude, and all thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and entire community of Red Lake.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, TIM WALZ, Governor of Minnesota, do hereby order all United States flags and Minnesota flags be flown at half-staff at all State and Federal buildings in Minnesota, from sunrise until sunset, on Thursday, July 11, 2019 in honor and remembrance of Conservation Officer Shannon Lee Barron.