Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has ordered U.S. and Michigan flags within the State Capitol Complex and on all state buildings to be lowered to half-staff on Monday, April 29, 2019, to honor the life and service of Former Congressman Bill Broomfield.

"Congressman Broomfield embodied everything that we should expect from our elected officials," Whitmer said. "He worked tirelessly on behalf of Michiganders and our state is better because of his service. My thoughts are with Congressman Broomfield's family during this time."

Former Congressman Bill Broomfield began his career of service in the Army during World War II before serving as a state representative and state senator in the Michigan Legislature. In 1957, he was elected to Congress where he served for 36 years until his retirement in 1993.

During his time in Congress, he earned a spot as the ranking Republican on the House Foreign Affairs Committee for 18 years, helping to shape much of the U.S. foreign policy during the Cold War.

The State of Michigan recognizes the duty, honor and selfless service of Former Congressman Bill Broomfield by lowering flags to half-staff. Michigan residents, businesses, schools, local governments and other organizations also are encouraged to display the flag at half-staff.

Flags should be returned to full-staff on Tuesday, April 30th, 2019.