Flags to be Flown at Half Staff Monday to Honor a Fallen Firefighter

(KNSI) — All U.S. and Minnesota flags will be flown at half staff at all state buildings Monday, January 31st, to honor another fallen firefighter.

According to a press release, Governor Tim Walz signed a proclamation honoring 61-year-old firefighter Allen Fischer of South Haven, who died January 10th “due to complications from a medical condition obtained during line of duty service.” Flags will be flown at half staff from sunrise to sunset.

According to Fischer’s obituary, he served for 42 years with the South Haven Fire and Rescue Department.

“Firefighter Fischer was a dedicated firefighter who was respected by his family, friends, and colleagues,” reads the proclamation issued by Governor Walz. “With its deepest gratitude, the State of Minnesota recognizes Firefighter Fischer for his dedicated service to, and sacrifice for, his fellow Minnesotans, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and community.”

Among his survivors are his wife, seven children, seven great-grandchildren, and two step-grandchildren.

Fischer is the fourth firefighter with central Minnesota ties to die due to a medical condition obtained in the line of duty. Captain Andy Loso of the St. Joseph Volunteer Fire Department died in November. Upsala Fire Captain Brian Lange died December 11th due to COVID-19 related exposure he received in the line of duty, and Reverend Brian Alnes with the Crystal Fire Department died on January 4th. Alnes also served as a first responder in Swanville and a reserve chaplain for Morrison County and Todd County sheriff’s offices.

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