Governor Roy Cooper ordered all United States and North Carolina flags at state facilities to be lowered to half-staff beginning Monday, February 10, 2020 in honor of Sgt. Javier Jaguar Gutierrez, who lost his life during an attack in Afghanistan. Sgt. Gutierrez, who was born in Jacksonville, North Carolina, was stationed at Fort Bragg before his assignment to the 3rd Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group at Eglin Air Force Base in Florida.

In tribute, flags are to remain at halfstaff through sunset on Sunday, February 16, 2020.

Statement from Governor Roy Cooper:

"We are grateful for Sgt. Gutierrez’s service, and our prayers are with his loved ones and all who are mourning."

As a show of respect, individuals, businesses, schools, municipalities, counties and other government subdivisions are encouraged to fly the flag at half-staff for the duration of time indicated.