TOPEKA— In accordance with Executive Order #20-30, Governor Laura Kelly has ordered flags to be flown at half-staff from sunrise until sunset on Friday, February 16, 2024, in honor of Lance Cpl. Donavan Davis.
Lance Cpl. Donavan Davis and four other decorated Marines were assigned to Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing and were based at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in San Diego.
The Super Stallion vanished late Tuesday night on its way back to Miramar from Creech Air Force Base during a historic storm. The craft was discovered Wednesday morning near the mountain community of Pine Valley.
Donovan Davis was the CH-53E helicopter crew chief. Davis enlisted in the Marine Corps on September 3, 2019, and was promoted to the rank of Lance Corporal on January 1, 2024. His decorations include the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and a Sea Service Deployment Ribbon
“Lance Cpl. Davis’s life was cut tragically short while serving our country. We will not forget the sacrifices he and the four other young marines made to protect our freedom,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “My condolences go out to these heroes' families and loved ones.”