Gov. Blagojevich issues proclamation designating Sept. 11 as Patriot Day
in Illinois  

State offices will fly flags at half-staff to honor victims and their families

[SEPT. 11, 2004]  SPRINGFIELD -- Gov. Rod Blagojevich today issued a proclamation designating Saturday, Sept. 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 it's 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 governor's 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

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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.

[News release from the governor's office]