September 10, 2004

LANSING – Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today issued an executive proclamation ordering flags flown at half-staff on Saturday, September 11, 2004, in remembrance of those who lost their lives in the terrorist attacks of 2001.  Granholm also encouraged Michigan citizens to honor those Americans who lost their lives through acts of service in communities across the state.
  
“Michigan’s soil was unscathed by the unthinkable attacks of three years ago, but our people were not.  Our hearts will forever bear scars for those taken from us. The greatest tribute we can pay to those who were lost is to honor their memory and to reflect on their extraordinary self-sacrifice by acting as citizen patriots in our own communities.  Whether it’s reading to a child, or donating blood or your time, the giving of yourself is truly a sacred way to pay homage to the legacy of those who died, especially the first responders who died in service to others.”
  
The Governor’s executive proclamation is in accordance with federal law designating September 11 as Patriot Day, and providing for the lowering of flags to honor of the individuals who lost their lives in terrorist attacks three years ago.  Governor Granholm also encourages all Michigan citizens to observe the national moment of silence tomorrow at 8:46 a.m., marking the time that American Airlines Flight 11 struck the north tower of the World Trade Center.