KS Gov. orders flags flown at half-staff to honor firefighters

KANSAS (KOAM) -- Governor Laura Kelly orders flags be flown at half-staff Wednesday, May 22, 2024 to honor Iola Fire Department Deputy Chief and Emporia firefighter and paramedic.

"Eric B'Hymer and Greg Rausch dedicated their lives to protecting and serving the people of Iola and Emporia," Governor Kelly said. "The impact they made on their communities will not be forgotten. My sincere condolences go out to their families and loved ones during this difficult time.

According a post made by Allen County, Kansas, Sheriff Bryan Murphy , Deputy Chief B'Hymer was a 24-year veteran of the Iola Fire Department who passed away on May 14, 2024 after a hard-fought battle with a service-connected illness.

Rausch, a firefighter and paramedic, was a 14-year veteran of the Emporia Fire Department who passed away on May 16 from a service-connected illness he had been battling since 2023.

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