Governor Directs Flags to Half-Staff in Franklin County in Honor of El Faro Crewman

For Immediate Release: October 14, 2015; Contact: Peter A. Steele, peter.a.steele@maine.gov

AUGUSTA – In honor of Michael Lee Holland, 25, a graduate of Maine Maritime Academy who was lost aboard the cargo ship El Faro, Governor Paul R. LePage has ordered flags on all public buildings and grounds in Franklin County to be lowered to immediately until sunset on Wednesday, October 14.

“The First Lady and I are deeply saddened by the loss of those aboard the El Faro, including our five Mainers. During this very difficult time, our hearts go out to the families and friends of our fellow Mainers, as well as all the other crew members,” said Governor LePage.

A memorial service for Michael Holland will be held today in Jay. A resident of Wilton and 2008 graduate of Jay High School, he graduated in 2012 from Maine Maritime Academy with a degree in Marine Engineering Technology. He has shipped as a U.S. Merchant Marine for the past three years as a 3rd Assistant Engineer and was a member of the American Maritime Officers Union.

All U.S. and State of Maine flags in Franklin County should be lowered to half-staff.