DENVER ~ In a tragic turn of events, three wildland firefighters lost their lives while responding to the Snyder Mesa Fire in Mesa County. Governor Polis announced today that all flags on state buildings will be flown at half-staff on the memorials of these fallen heroes: Emily Barker, Nick Hutcherson, and Sydney Watson.

The US Department of the Interior released the names of the fallen earlier this morning. Emily Barker, 38, of Clinton Township, Michigan, was assigned to the U.S. Forest Service Rifle Helitack. Nick Hutcherson, 27, of Glendale, Arizona, was assigned to the U.S. Forest Service Kaibab National Forest. Sydney Watson, 26, of Warrior, Alabama, was assigned to the U.S. Wildland Fire Service Rifle Helitack.

Governor Polis expressed his deep sorrow upon hearing the news and praised the bravery and sacrifice of these firefighters. "Firefighters face incredible risk and put their lives on the line to respond to wildfires, keep Coloradans safe, and protect our communities," he said in a statement. "I was devastated to hear that Emily Barker, Nick Hutcherson, and Sydney Watson made the ultimate sacrifice to protect us."

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The Governor has ordered flags to fly at half-staff on the days of each firefighter's memorial once they are selected. He also declared a disaster emergency on Saturday in response to the Snyder Mesa Fire and authorized the National Guard to assist in recovering the fallen firefighters.

In addition to those who lost their lives in this tragedy, two other firefighters were injured while on duty. The Governor's office has been working closely with the U.S. Wildland Fire Service to coordinate rescue efforts for these individuals.

At this time, more details about memorial dates have not been released but will be shared as soon as they are available. The Snyder Mesa Fire is currently estimated to be over 28,000 acres and continues to burn. The entire state of Colorado mourns the loss of these brave individuals and honors their service and sacrifice.

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