Governor Lombardo orders flags to half-staff for Christopher V. Andersen

Governor Joe Lombardo issued a half-staff order in honor of Christopher V. Andersen, a U.S. Forest Service-contracted helitack aerial firefighting pilot.

According to the proclamation text, Andersen died on August 7 while supporting aerial firefighting operations on the Widemouth 2 Fire near Three Creeks Reservoir in Fishlake National Forest, Utah.

The governor said Andersen dedicated more than four decades to aviation and public service, including service as a helicopter pilot in the U.S. Army and later flying critical missions to protect communities. The statement also notes that he made his home near Lake Tahoe and served as a chief pilot and mentor.

The flag order applies to the Nevada State Capitol and all state public buildings and grounds. The source states the flags are to be lowered from sunrise to sunset on Monday, August 17, 2026, at the request of Andersen's family.