Gov. Kim Reynolds ordered all flags in Iowa to be lowered to half-staff immediately to sunset on October 22, 2021 in honor and remembrance of Colin Powell. 

Powell served as the first African-American United States Secretary of State from 2001 to 2005. During the course of his career, Powell also served as National Security Advisor and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.  

“Colin Powell was a tremendous public servant for our nation and was highly respected by his colleagues both in America and abroad,” said Gov. Reynolds. “He forged the way to become the highest rank in civilian government ever held by an African American when he was appointed Secretary of State and devoted his life and work to our country. He will be dearly missed but his legacy will live on for generations.”    

The governor’s order is issued in conjunction with President Joe Biden’s proclamation to lower all United States flags to half-staff for the same length of time. 

Flags will be at half-staff on the State Capitol Building and on flag displays in the Capitol Complex. Flags will also be half-staff on all public buildings, grounds and facilities throughout the state.   

Individuals, businesses, schools, municipalities, counties and other government subdivisions are encouraged to fly the flags at half-staff for the same length of time.