K9 Officers gather to pay tribute to fallen Officer Kevin Tonn. Photo: Renee Byer, Sacramento Bee

On Monday, January 21st, over two thousand law enforcement officers, firefighters, military personnel, public service officials, and civilians gathered to honor the memory and valiant spirit of fallen Galt PD Officer Kevin Tonn. The display of loyalty, honor, and respect was overwhelming in its beauty and heart-warming power. What made this service even more special was the presence of the U.S. Honor Flag, flown in to Northern California for the first time this year, specifically to honor the heroism of Kevin Tonn.

The flag that flew over Ground Zero is the same flag that has become the U.S. Honor Flag.

Many people are unaware of this flag and the special honor it bestows. The U.S. Honor Flag began in 2001, after the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center. This was the very same flag that our brave firefighters hoisted over the rubble at Ground Zero shortly after the attacks. This flag has since traveled an estimated 5 million miles across the United States to honor our fallen men and women in military, law enforcement, firefighting, and more. The Honor Flag serves as a tribute and testimony to the heroism of those who gave their lives in service to their country and its people. It was an incredible honor to have this flag here at Kevin Tonn’s memorial service.

The U.S. Honor Flag was received at Sacramento International Airport with solemn ceremony, and escorted to Officer Tonn’s memorial service on Monday. The Honor Flag was carefully escorted down the aisle at Officer Tonn’s funeral, and placed on a small table that sat to one side of the flag-draped casket of our hero. It also accompanied Officer Tonn to the graveside, where it was on display during the final tribute to this brave man who made the ultimate sacrifice. Below is the link to the video of the Honor Flag being received at the Sacramento International Airport, and another link to a video of Officer Tonn’s very moving memorial service.

U.S. Honor Flag Ceremony for Officer Kevin Tonn

Memorial Service for Officer Kevin Tonn

For more information on the U.S. Honor Flag, please visit the United States Honor Flag website.

K9 Yaro stands watch over his fallen partner, Officer Kevin Tonn. Photo: Renee Byer, Sacramento Bee.