Governor Janet Mills has directed that the United States and State of Maine flags be flown at half-staff statewide from sunrise to sunset on the day of funeral services for Maine firefighter Captain Joel Barnes of Berwick who lost his life in the line of service Friday, March 1. An additional flag notice will be sent upon the scheduling of Capt. Barnes’ funeral.

“Captain Joel Barnes laid down his life to save a fellow firefighter as together, they fought to protect Maine families. Joel will be forever remembered as a hero for his bravery and service to our state,” said Governor Janet Mills, in a news release. “My thoughts and prayers are with Joel’s family, friends, fellow firefighters and the people of Berwick. I ask every family in Maine to join with me in honoring Joel’s service and wishing for the swift recovery of the four firefighters still hospitalized.”