One week after three Mississippi natives lost their lives when a University of Mississippi Medical Center AirCare helicopter crashed in Madison County, Governor Tate Reeves has declared a state day of mourning in memory of their sacrifice as first responders.
Reeves released Executive Order No. 1588 on Monday, May 17, honoring Jakob Kindt, Dustin Pope, and Cal Wesolowski. Kindt, a critical care paramedic, Pope, a flight nurse, and Wesolowski, a Med Trans pilot, were identified as the victims shortly after the crash.
“…the State of Mississippi shall never forget the sacrifices made by first responders who protect and aid our communities in times of crisis and emergency,” reads a portion of the executive order. “And we shall always stand ready to recognize and honor those first responders who gave the last full measure of devotion in service to our great State and Nation.”
Under the direction of Reeves’ order, all flags on state buildings and grounds will fly at half-staff on Monday, March 17, in memory of Kindt, Pope, and Wesolowski.
“We will never forget the brave sacrifices these first responders made in selfless service to our state,” Reeves wrote on social media as he announced the order.
