Governor Gretchen Whitmer ordered U.S. and Michigan flags to half-staff on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, to honor Detroit Fire Fighter Patrick Trout, who died in the line of duty. Trout had served in the Detroit Fire Department for 12 years.
Before joining the fire department, Trout served as a U.S. Army Sergeant and was a member of the National Guard and Army Reserves. He was assigned to Alpha Company, 1st Battalion 125th and the 2nd Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment.
"Patrick Trout was a proud family man and dedicated public servant," Governor Whitmer said in a statement. "He was an example of the selflessness and dedication firefighters across Michigan demonstrate each and every day."
Detroit Executive Fire Commissioner Chuck Simms said Trout "represented the very best of the Detroit Fire Department" and served "with courage, humility, and an unwavering commitment to the people of Detroit." Flags are to be returned to full-staff on Wednesday, August 19, 2026.