Governor Whitmer has ordered U.S. and Michigan flags throughout the state of Michigan to be lowered to half-staff on Friday to honor the life and service of former Staff Sergeant Natalie Barajas of Gaylord.
The flag honors will coincide with her funeral service.
“Our state mourns the passing of former Staff Sergeant Natalie Barajas,” Governor Whitmer said in a statement. “Staff Sergeant Barajas served her country honorably and inspired many with her dedication to helping others. I extend my deepest condolences to her family and loved ones as they lay her to rest.”
Barajas was born April 26, 1990 and graduated from Gaylord High School in 2008. She went on to join the U.S. Army, where she served as a combat medic, orthopedic technician, clinic supervisor and staff sergeant. Her military career included deployments to Iraq and Germany. During her service she earned the Army Commendation Medal seven times, the Army Achievement Medal five times, the Army Good Conduct Medal three times and the Iraq Campaign Medal.
Barajas passed away on May 12, 2020 at 30 years old.
In an update, the Governor’s Office says that flags will fly at full staff on Friday, Sept. 17 to recognize Constitution Day and National POW/MIA Recognition Day. They say the new flag lowering date for Sgt. Barajas will be on Sunday, Sept. 19.
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