WHEREAS, former United States Navy servicemember Kevin Yali was born in Paterson and was a longtime resident of Midland Park; and

WHEREAS, Kevin was a graduate of Midland Park High School, where he made the All-Bergen County wrestling team as a senior; and

WHEREAS, Kevin attended the United States Naval Academy following graduation; and

WHEREAS, Kevin enlisted in the United States Navy in 2012, completing four separate deployments as a servicemember; and

WHEREAS, Kevin tragically lost his life in Afghanistan on June 19, 2019, while providing security for American forces; and

WHEREAS, Kevin was a beloved son and brother, whose presence will be missed by his family, his friends, his fellow servicemembers, and by the people of New Jersey whom are grateful for his service; and

WHEREAS, it is with immense sadness that we mourn Kevin’s sudden passing, and extend our deepest sympathy to his family, friends, and colleagues; and

WHEREAS, it is appropriate to honor the exemplary character, outstanding achievements, and cherished memory of Kevin, and to mark his passing;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, PHILIP D. MURPHY, Governor of the State of New Jersey, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and by the Statutes of this State, do hereby ORDER and DIRECT:

1. The flag of the United States of America and the flag of New Jersey shall be flown at half-staff at all State departments, offices, agencies, and instrumentalities during appropriate hours on Wednesday, June 26, 2019, in recognition and mourning of a courageous and loyal American veteran, Kevin Yali.

2. This Order shall take effect immediately.