Honoring the Legacy of Former Idaho Governor Phil Batt: Flags Lowered Statewide

On March 4, 2023, Idaho Governor Brad Little ordered the immediate lowering of U.S. and State of Idaho flags to honor the late former Governor Phil Batt. Batt, a distinguished public servant who served as Governor, Lt. Governor, and Senator, passed away peacefully on his 96th birthday. His legacy is distinguished by his unrelenting human rights leadership, determined fiscal conservatism, and enduring love for the state of Idaho.

Lowering Flags to Honor a Great Leader

Governor Little praised Batt's legacy, calling him the epitome of a public servant. Batt's contributions to the state of Idaho were numerous, including his advocacy for human rights and his commitment to fiscal conservatism. His passing is a great loss for the state and the nation.

A Fitting Tribute on Idaho Day

Batt's passing on March 4, 2023, was particularly poignant as it was Idaho Day, the anniversary of the day President Abraham Lincoln created the Idaho Territory in 1863. Governor Little noted the significance of the timing, saying, "It is fitting Phil Batt was born and passed on Idaho Day. His love for Idaho and dedication to serving its people will always be remembered."

Lowering Flags Statewide

In honor of Batt's passing, flags will be lowered at all state buildings and facilities immediately and will remain lowered until his day of interment, which will be announced at a later date. This gesture is a mark of respect and tribute to a great leader who dedicated his life to serving the people of Idaho.

Paying Respects to a Great Leader

The body of Governor Batt will lie in state at the Capitol, and additional details will be provided from the Governor's Office to inform the public how they can pay their respects. This is an opportunity for the people of Idaho to come together and honor a leader who made a significant contribution to the state's history.

Conclusion

The passing of former Idaho Governor Phil Batt is a great loss for the state and the nation. However, his legacy will live on through his contributions to human rights, fiscal conservatism, and his enduring love for Idaho. Governor Little's order to lower flags statewide is a fitting tribute to a great leader, and it is an opportunity for the people of Idaho to pay their respects to a man who dedicated his life to serving the state and its people.

State Flags - Idaho State Flags - FORTISVEX

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UPDATE: Governor Little ordered the lowering of U.S. and State of Idaho flags to half-staff to honor Governor Batt. Flags will be raised to full staff at sunrise on Saturday, March 11.

Public Event Information:

Thursday, March 9

10 a.m. – Governor Batt will be honorably transferred and arrive at the Capitol. The Idaho Army National Guard’s band will perform honors and a flyover will take place by the Idaho Air National Guard, weather permitting. Governor Brad Little will lead the Capitol service with remarks from former Governors C.L. “Butch” Otter and Dirk Kempthorne and U.S. Senator Jim Risch.

Governor Batt will lie in state in the Capitol Rotunda until 10 a.m. Friday, March 10.

Friday, March 10

10 a.m. – Governor Batt will be honorably transferred from the Capitol Rotunda to the Cathedral of the Rockies, located at 717 N. 11th St. in Boise.

11 a.m. – Funeral service begins. The public is invited to attend the funeral. A reception will follow at the same location. Following the reception, the procession of family and invited friends will be led by the Idaho State Police to the Wilder Cemetery for a private burial service.