Bismarck, N.D. – Gov. Kelly Armstrong has directed all North Dakota government agencies to fly the United States and North Dakota flags at half-staff on Friday in remembrance of the victims of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
Armstrong also encouraged residents across North Dakota to lower flags at their homes and businesses as the state joins the nation in marking the 25th anniversary of the attacks.
“Twenty-five years ago, our country was attacked by an enemy who wanted to destroy us and everything we stand for,” Armstrong said. “In the quarter-century that followed, we have faced this attack on our values, our freedom and our fellow citizens with strength and resiliency, fueled by the indomitable American spirit.”
The governor said the anniversary provides an opportunity to remember not only those who were killed in the attacks, but also the first responders and other heroes who died while attempting to save victims.
“We will never forget the victims of those unspeakable acts, the heroes who died trying to save them, and the military members who have laid down their lives in the Global War on Terror,” Armstrong said.
He also offered prayers and support for the families and loved ones who continue to live with the loss caused by the attacks.
The governor’s directive follows a joint resolution of Congress designating Sept. 11 as Patriot Day. Federal law also calls for Sept. 11 to be observed as a National Day of Service and Remembrance.
North Dakota residents are encouraged to participate in the remembrance in several ways, including lowering flags at their homes and businesses and observing a moment of silence.
Americans are encouraged to observe the moment of silence at 7:46 a.m. Central Daylight Time, honoring those who lost their lives during the terrorist attacks.
The Sept. 11 attacks killed nearly 3,000 people and led to profound changes in the United States, including a prolonged military campaign overseas and significant changes to national security and counterterrorism policies.
For North Dakota, Armstrong’s directive provides a statewide observance as government agencies lower the flags in recognition of the victims, the emergency responders who lost their lives and military members who later died during the Global War on Terror.
The governor urged residents to join the observance and remember the people affected by the attacks, while emphasizing the resilience of Americans in the 25 years since that day.
