Gov. Evers Orders Flags to Half-Staff in Honor of Former Oneida Nation Chairman Gerald L. “Jerry” Danforth

MADISON — Gov. Tony Evers signed Executive Order #265 ordering the flags of the United States and the state of Wisconsin to be flown at half-staff on Sat., June 7, 2025, in honor of former Oneida Nation Chairman Gerald L. “Jerry” Danforth, who passed away on Sat., June 1, 2025, at the age of 78.

“Chairman Danforth led the Oneida Nation with integrity, dedication, and a deep commitment to upholding and protecting Tribal sovereignty and culture,” said Gov. Evers. “Kathy and I are sending our deepest condolences to Chairman Danforth’s family and loved ones and the Oneida Nation as they mourn his passing.”

Born on the Oneida Reservation, Chairman Danforth served two terms as chairman of the Oneida Nation, first elected in 1999 and then returning as chairman in 2005. As chairman, Danforth prioritized Indian gaming interests and economic development, as well as issues around healthcare, higher education, Oneida language preservation, and expanding communication between the state and the Native Nations. Prior to his tenure as chairman, Danforth led a more than 30-year career in the U.S. Navy, retiring in 1994 as the force master chief of the Naval Surface Force, U.S. Atlantic Fleet. Danforth also served the Oneida Judiciary as a judge.

Services for former Oneida Nation Chairman Gerald L. “Jerry” Danforth will be held on Sat., June 7, 2025, in Oneida.

Executive Order #265 will be in effect from sunrise to sunset on Sat., June 7, 2025, and is available here.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.

Recent Press Releases by Gov. Tony Evers

Gov. Evers, Wisconsin Department of Tourism, Packers Celebrate Return of Badgers Hockey to Lambeau Field for Travel Wisconsin Frozen Tundra Faceoff

Sep 2nd, 2026 by Gov. Tony Evers

Travel Wisconsin to sponsor Frozen Tundra Faceoff featuring Badgers women’s and men’s hockey matchups at iconic Lambeau Field

Gov. Evers, DNR Celebrate Release of $10 Million Pfas Settlement Payment to Help Provide Safe Drinking Water to Affected Communities

Sep 1st, 2026 by Gov. Tony Evers

After pressure from Gov. Evers, lawmakers finally release $10 million from PFAS Trust Fund to help ensure Wisconsinites have access to clean water

Gov. Evers Welcomes Educators and Staff Back to School With Video Message

Sep 1st, 2026 by Gov. Tony Evers