Des Moines, IA (KICD)--All U.S. and state flags in Iowa are to be flown at half staff this weekend in honor of a Iowan killed while serving on active duty in the U.S. Army.

Sgt. Michael E. Ristau, originally of Cascade, died at the age of 25 on July 13th when the vehicle he was riding in was attacked by an improvised explosive device.  The governor’s directive applies to all U.S. and state flags under the control of the state.

Flags will be at half-staff on the state Capitol building and on flag displays in the Capitol complex, and upon all public buildings, grounds, and facilities throughout the state. Individuals, businesses, schools, municipalities, counties and other government subdivisions are encouraged to fly the flag at half-staff for the same length of time as a sign of respect. 

Flags are to be flown at half-staff from 5 p.m. on Friday until 8 a.m. this Monday.

The U.S. flag flown over the state Capitol on the day of the funeral will be presented to Sgt. Ristau’s family at a later date, along with a proclamation honoring him.