Governor orders flags to half-staff to honor former Oneida Nation Chairman

GREEN BAY, Wis (WGBW) – Governor Tony Evers signed an executive order today ordering the flags of the United States and the state of Wisconsin to be flown at half-staff tomorrow, June 7, in honor of former Oneida Nation Chairman Gerald L. “Jerry” Danforth, who passed away on Saturday, June 1, at 78-years-old.

“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, healthcare, higher education, Oneida language preservation, and expanding communication between the state and the Native Nations. 

Before 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 as a judge in the Oneida Judiciary.  

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

Executive Order #265 for flying flags at half-staff will be in effect from sunrise to sunset on Saturday, June 7, 2025, and is available here.