Flags Lowered Today

Gov. Rick Snyder has ordered U.S. flags to be lowered to half-staff within the state Capitol Complex and at state buildings, grounds and facilities throughout Michigan in honor of Special Warfare Operator Petty Officer 2^nd Class David J. Warsen, of Kentwood, on Thursday, Aug. 30.  Warsen, 27, died Aug. 16 in a helicopter crash northeast of Kandahar, Afghanistan. He was assigned to a West Coast-based naval special warfare unit.  “Petty Officer Warsen will forever be remembered for his great sacrifice as a devoted Navy SEAL,” said Snyder. “I extend my sincere condolences to his many friends, fiancée, Karlyn, and entire family.”  Warsen was a graduate of East Kentwood High School. He joined the Navy in March 2009, and his tour in Afghanistan was set to end Oct. 1. Warsen and his fiancée were planning a Dec. 8 wedding.  Visitation will be from 1 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday at Mars Hill Bible Church in Grandville. The funeral service will be 11 a.m. on Thursday at the church.