KC Reporter

Flags across Missouri will be flown at half-staff on Saturday, October 11, 2025, to honor Sikeston Department of Public Safety Officer Henry J.R. Franklin. The order was issued by Governor Mike Kehoe and applies to government buildings in Scott, New Madrid, and Mississippi counties, as well as all police stations, sheriffs’ offices, and Missouri State Highway Patrol general and troop headquarters throughout the state.

“Officer Franklin devoted his life to courageously serving and protecting others, including nearly 20 years in the military, with two tours in Iraq, and over 12 years of service to the City of Sikeston as a member of Sikeston DPS,” Governor Kehoe said. “Officer Franklin died as he and other officers attempted to bring a murder suspect to justice. He will be remembered for bravely confronting violence and making the ultimate sacrifice so his fellow Missourians could live safer and more secure lives. Claudia and I are keeping his family, members of the Sikeston DPS, and all who loved him in our prayers.”

On October 6, Officer Franklin was part of the Sikeston Department of Public Safety Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team that assisted the Mississippi County Sheriff’s Office during an attempt to apprehend a homicide suspect. During the operation to serve an arrest warrant at a residence where the suspect was hiding, Officer Franklin was shot and killed.

Officer Franklin served in the United States Army from March 2002 to February 2013 and later joined the Missouri Army National Guard from November 2013 to August 2022. His military service included participation in Operation Iraqi Freedom and the Global War on Terrorism. He achieved the rank of sergeant before transitioning into law enforcement.

After graduating from Southeast Missouri State Law Enforcement Training Academy on May 31, 2013, Officer Franklin earned his Missouri Peace Officer License. He was commissioned by the Sikeston Department of Public Safety on June 2, 2013. During his tenure with Sikeston DPS, he served as a K9 Handler and SWAT team member.

Flags will remain at half-staff on the day of Officer Franklin’s memorial service.