(MSC News)--Flags will fly across Kansas at half-staff Sunday, with that directive issued Friday by Kansas Governor Laura Kelly.

According to a release from Kelly's office, the Governor directed flags to be flown in that formation, from sunup to sundown Sunday, "in recognition of National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Day and to honor Division Chief Martin Smith of the Dearing Fire Department in Montgomery County."

Kelly, in the release, says Kansas "will not forget the sacrifices Division Chief Smith made and the work all Kansas firefighters undertake each day to protect Kansans.”

Smith, who served Montgomery County for nearly 50-years, died in January after responding to a vehicle crash in the line of duty.

The release makes clear that while Smith is recognized through the flying of the flags, the order is issued in honor of all fallen firefighters.