Sailor's Remains Returning Home to Suffield

SUFFIELD, CT — Flags in Connecticut were returned to full-staff Tuesday evening, but those flying over Suffield will be allowed to remain at half-staff as a fallen hero returns home.

Statewide, flags have been flying at half-staff since the death of U.S. Navy Petty Officer Dustin Doyon of Suffield, who was among those who died on board the U.S.S. John S. McCain when it collided with a merchant vessel off the coast of Singapore on Aug. 21.

According to the office of First Selectman Melissa Mack, the town of Suffield requested and was granted an exemption from Gov. Dannel Malloy's order to raise the flags to full-staff.

"Accordingly, we ask that all flags in Suffield remain at half-staff until completion of memorial services for Electronics Technician Second Class Petty Officer Dustin L. Doyon, USN," the office stated on the town's web site.

A donor has contributed 200 American flags to the town, which are available in the First Selectman's office.

"Our community has continued to express a desire to support the Doyon family in any way possible," the web site states. "To that end, the Town received a generous donation of 200 American flags to further the effort to line our streets and neighborhoods as a beautiful tribute to Dustin. Flags are available in the First Selectman’s Office at 230C Mountain Road during the hours of 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. The only request from the donor is that the flags are disposed of in a respectful manner if not returned or retained."

Arrangements for the return of Doyon's body to Suffield are not yet completed, but an obituary published on the Carmon Community Funeral Homes web site indicates his funeral will be held Tuesday, Sept. 12 at 10 a.m. at Sacred Heart Church, with calling hours scheduled for Monday, Sept. 11 at Nicholson & Carmon Funeral Home from 4-8 p.m.

On Friday, the public is being invited by the Doyon family to gather in Suffield Center in the vicinity of the Suffield Veterans Memorial (Route 75 and Bridge Street.) at 4:45 p.m., to pay their respects during a procession as family members make their way to the funeral home.

"The Doyon family will be welcoming the public to pay their respects during portions of the services planned for their son and brother, Dustin Doyon," the web site states. "Once a definitive schedule is received from the U.S. Navy, the Town of Suffield will communicate the specifics of the plans, routes and shuttle information in accordance with the Doyon family’s wishes."

Photo Credit: U.S. Navy via Carmon Community Funeral Homes