Governor Peter Shumlin issued the following statement on the death of former Governor Ray Keyser Jr. The governor has ordered that flags be flown at half-staff in honor of Governor Keyser. He died Saturday at his daughter's home in Brandon. He was 87.
"Vermont has lost a faithful public servant who showed his love for this state and its people through his years of service. My thoughts are with Governor Keyser's family and friends. I know I join all Vermonters in being thankful for Governor Keyser's dedication to Vermont."
Governor Keyser, far right, with, from left, Governors Douglas, Salmon and Kunin in 2012. VBM file
Congressman Peter Welch made the following statement on the passing of Governor Kesyer:
"With the passing of Governor Ray Keyser, Vermont has lost a true patriot and statesman. Long after leaving office, he remained active in public service and committed to the best interests of our state and all Vermonters. My condolences go out to his family, friends and his community."
Keyser, whose first name is Frank, was Vermont's youngest governor when he was elected in 1960 at age 34. He was the Vermont Speaker of the House at the time. His one-term marked the transition from Vermont being the most Republican state to one of the most Democratic. Phil Hoff's defeat of Keyser in 1962 marked the first time in 109 years that Vermont had a Democratic governor.
Where the flag will be lowered:
The Vermont State House, all Federal and State Facilities around the state and public buildings and grounds around the state.
Which flags will be lowered:
The U.S flag, Vermont State flag, POW flags, and any other flags *
Date the flag is to be lowered: (at sunrise):
Monday, March 9, 2015
Date flag is to return to full staff: (at sunset):
Monday, March 16, 2015
Name of person being honored/Reason to Lower Flag(s):
The Governor has ordered the U.S. and Vermont flags at all state facilities lowered to half-staff in honor of Governor F. Ray Keyser, Jr. Governor Keyser was Vermont's 72nd Governor, serving from 1961-1963.
* Please noteall flags must fly at half-stafffor that period of time.
Rule: when the U.S. flag is lowered, the Vermont flag, the POW flag, and any other flag must also be lowered, because the U.S. flag must always fly above or equal to any other flags that are flown.