Sanders Orders Flags to Half-Staff on October 19, 2026

• Oct 18, 2026

Sanders Orders Flags to Half-Staff on October 19, 2026

TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS COME - GREETINGS:

WHEREAS: Corporal Delmor W. Erwin faithfully answered the call to serve his nation during World War II;

WHEREAS: Corporal Erwin served with honor in the United States Army, demonstrating unwavering courage and dedication to duty;

WHEREAS: On April 9th, 1942, he was captured by the Japanese, endured the Bataan Death March and imprisoned at the Cabanatuan POW Camp, and at 20 years old, made the ultimate sacrifice for the defense of the United States;

WHEREAS: For more than 80 years, his remains were considered missing or unknown until advancements in forensic science provided the breakthrough that brought clarity, closure, and the opportunity for Corporal Erwin to be returned home to Arkansas;

WHEREAS: His life and legacy continue to be cherished by his surviving family, including his
nephew Jim Erwin and great niece Reva Bushatz, who remember him with deep pride and honor; and

WHEREAS: Corporal Erwin was laid to rest October 15th, 2026, with full military honors.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, SARAH HUCKABEE SANDERS, Governor of the State of Arkansas, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the laws of the State of Arkansas, do hereby proclaim October 19th, 2026, as a day of remembrance for Corporal Delmore W. Erwin, inviting all Arkansans to honor his legacy and reflect upon the cost of freedom he so bravely bore. I further order that the United States flag and the state flag of Arkansas be flown at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on October 19th, 2026, as a mark of respect for Corporal Delmor W. Erwin's service, sacrifice, and devotion.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Great Seal of the State of Arkansas to be affixed this 16th day of October, in the year of our Lord 2026.

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