Wisconsin and U.S. flags to fly half-staff to recognize Waukesha Christmas Parade tragedy

MADISON, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Gov. Tony Evers ordered the flags of the United States and the state of Wisconsin to be flown at half-staff on Monday, Nov. 21 to recognize the first anniversary of last year's Waukesha Christmas Parade tragedy.

In a Friday, Nov. 18 press release, Gov. Evers's office said that Executive Order #177 is to remember the tragedy and to show respect for the six people who were murdered in the attack. The order will be in effect from sunrise to sunset on the one-year anniversary of the tragedy.

Evers noted, "As we remember this tragic event, we also reflect on the first responders, community leaders, and neighbors who ran toward danger to help, every person who responded in the days and months that followed with kindness, empathy, and compassion, and the extraordinary faith, strength, and resilience the Waukesha community has shown over the last year."

He also said that he and his wife Kathy are thinking of the entire Waukesha community, including not only the victims but also all loved ones, friends, first responders and neighbors who will be especially impacted by the anniversary of the attack.

Waukesha County Executive Paul Farrow and Waukesha Mayor Shawn Reilly said in a joint statement that they are looking ahead as a community, but not ignoring those who suffered emotional trauma.

"We begin another chapter in our journey as a community in providing support for those who need healing and finding peace."