LANSING — Gov. Rick Snyder has ordered U.S. and Michigan flags to be lowered to half-staff Thursday, Oct. 19, on all state buildings and within the state Capitol complex in honor of U.S. Army Sgt. Michael S. Yachanin, who died Friday, Oct. 6.

“Sgt. Yachanin was a dedicated soldier and his service to this country will never be forgotten,” Snyder said. “I send my most heartfelt condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time.”

Sgt. Yachanin was stationed in The Netherlands and was an Army chaplain assistant. He served a tour of duty in Afghanistan in 2014. He also was a musician and bagpiper and had been a member of the Jefferson Pipe Band in Medford, Oregon.

A service in his honor took place today at Riverdale Baptist Church in Flint.

Michigan residents, businesses, schools, local governments and other organizations are encouraged to display the flag at half-staff. Flags should be returned to full staff on Friday.

When flown at half-staff or half-mast, the U.S. flag should be hoisted first to the peak for an instant and then lowered to the half-staff or half-mast position. The flag should again be raised to the peak before it is lowered for the day.