Date:09/10/04
Gov. Blagojevich issues proclamation
designating September 11 as
Patriot Day in Illinois
State offices will fly flags at half-staff
to honor victims and their families
SPRINGFIELD Governor Rod R. Blagojevich today issued a proclamation
designating Saturday, September 11, 2004, as Patriot Day in Illinois.
The proclamation instructs state offices to honor victims on Saturday by
flying flags at half-staff and calls on citizens to observe a moment of silence
at 7:46 a.m. (8:46 EST), the time when the first plane struck the World Trade
Center three years ago.
Although its been three years since terrorists struck our nation, we will
never forget the pain we suffered or the many men and women who lost their
lives, said Gov. Blagojevich. On Saturday, I hope we are all able to visit
with our friends and loved ones to remember and honor the heroes who made the
ultimate sacrifice that day.
The Governors proclamation states:
WHEREAS, on September 11, 2001, tragedy struck
when terrorists launched massive attacks on our nation, taking more than 3,000
innocent lives; and
WHEREAS, following the attacks, heroes emerged
from all corners of this great country, laying down their lives to save others
and helping to pick up the pieces in the wake of this terrible disaster; and
WHEREAS, today, that heroism continues with the
brave men and women of the United States Armed Forces who are currently
fighting overseas to preserve our freedom, and prevent future terrorist attacks
against our nation; and
WHEREAS, this year, as we commemorate the third
anniversary of the September 11, 2001 attacks, it is important that we not only
take the time to remember the victims, but that we also pay tribute to all
those that continue to make sacrifices for their country; and
WHEREAS, by Executive Proclamation, President
George W. Bush has declared September 11 of each year to be Patriot Day in the
United States. This commemoration includes a moment of silence at 8:46
a.m., Eastern Standard Time, the same time that the first plane struck the
north tower of the World Trade Center on that fateful day; and
WHEREAS, the State of Illinois faithfully joins
President Bush in recognizing Patriot Day:
THEREFORE, I, Rod Blagojevich, Governor of the State of Illinois, do hereby
proclaim September 11, 2004 as PATRIOT DAY in Illinois, and order all
state facilities to fly their flags at half-staff throughout the duration of
this day.
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