LANSING - Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today encouraged Michigan citizens to remember victims and heroes of the September 11 attacks on New York and Washington, D.C. by lowering flags and observing a moment of silence Thursday, September 11, 2008, which marks the seven-year anniversary of the terrorist attacks.  

            In compliance with an executive order issued by Governor Granholm, flags should be flown at half-staff tomorrow in remembrance of those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001.  Granholm also encouraged citizens to observe a moment of silence tomorrow at 8:46 a.m., the time the first plane crashed into the North Tower at the World Trade Center. 

            "Let each of us take a moment of silence to reflect on and remember the terrible tragedy of September 11," Granholm said.  "In our reflections, let us honor the memories of the victims and heroes of that day and offer our prayers of comfort to their loved ones.  Let us also embrace our great patriotic spirit that has and continues to unify and strengthen our country."          

            Executive Order 2006-10, which provides for the lowering of flags to honor those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001, is consistent with federal law which designates September 11 of each year Patriot Day.  For more information on the president's proclamation designating each September 11 Patriot Day, visit the Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs website at www.michigan.gov/dmva

            When flown at half-staff or half-mast, the United States flag should be hoisted first to the peak for an instant and then lowered to the half-staff or half-mast position.  The flag should again be raised to the peak before it is lowered for the day.  Procedures for flag-lowering were detailed by Governor Granholm in Executive Order 2006-10.

# # #