CONCORD – Governor Maggie Hassan has directed flags to half-staff on
Thursday, September 11, 2014, and proclaimed Thursday as a Day of
Remembrance in honor of the innocent victims, first responders and service
members who lost their lives in the tragic terrorist attacks 13 years ago
and ensuing conflicts.

“Despite being one of the darkest days in U.S. history, September 11,
2001, was also a day when Americans demonstrated our collective resilience
in the face of great tragedy, when we united in the undying American spirit
of perseverance that has always defined our great country,” Governor
Hassan said. “Every year, we come together to remember the innocent
victims of those senseless acts of terror, the first responders who bravely
put their lives on the line to save others, and the service members and
first responders who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect their fellow
citizens, while also rededicating ourselves to the enduring concept of
freedom that is our very core.”

“We also remember all of those who – regardless of their role or their
occupation when they started the day – became heroes on September 11,
risking their lives in the aftermath of those tragic events to protect
people who they had never met simply because we’re all Americans,”
Governor Hassan said. “And this year, the loss of dedicated Marine Lance
Corporal Brandon Garabrant and two intrepid journalists – James Foley and
Steven Sotloff – will be fresh on our minds, adding new pain to this
solemn occasion. Our thoughts and prayers remain with the 10 Granite
Staters we lost on September 11 and all of the innocent victims, Lance
Corporal Garabrant, James, Steven and their loved ones, and we are
eternally grateful for our men and women in uniform and those whose
courageous sacrifices keep us safe.”

To honor the victims and heroes of September 11 and the service members
lost since, Governor Hassan will participate in two remembrance ceremonies:
the City of Manchester’s 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony at Henry McLaughlin
Middle School and the American Legion Post 35 Global War on Terrorism
Monument Unveiling and Rededication in Hampton.