HARTFORD – Gov. Ned Lamont has announced he is directing U.S. and state flags in Connecticut lowered to half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Thursday, September 11, in remembrance of the nearly 3,000 people who were killed in the 2001 terrorist attacks on the United States.
In accordance with the directive, flags will be at half-staff on the Connecticut State Capitol building and all other state-operated buildings, grounds, and facilities statewide. Individuals, businesses, schools, municipalities, and any other private entities and government subdivisions are encouraged to lower their flags for this same duration of time. Since no flag should fly higher than the U.S. flag, all other flags, including state, municipal, corporate, or otherwise, should also be lowered.
Additionally, Lamont announced the state will illuminate the Pearl Harbor Memorial Bridge in New Haven – informally known by many residents as the Q Bridge – in red, white, and blue lights in recognition of the anniversary. Beacons capable of projecting light nearly 6 miles into the clear night sky will be lit until the early morning hours.
“On this day 24 years ago, one of the greatest tragedies in American history struck incredibly close to home, taking nearly 3,000 innocent lives, many of whom are from Connecticut,” the governor said. “We will forever pay tribute to those who were taken from us all too soon and honor the heroism of those who gave their lives while rescuing their fellow man, including many first responders.”
Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz said the state of Connecticut will never forget what happened on that date.
“On the 24th anniversary of 9/11, we take this time to come together and mourn for the thousands of innocent victims, including the 161 victims with ties to Connecticut, who were killed by terrorist attacks in 2001. In the midst of one of the greatest tragedies in our country’s history, first responders showcased immense bravery by putting their lives on the line, reminding us all of our country’s resiliency.
“The State of Connecticut will never forget the victims or their loved ones for the sacrifices that they have made and the tragedies they have endured. To anyone who lost a loved one on that fateful day, our hearts, our thoughts, and our prayers are with you, always.”
Connecticut’s official memorial honoring the victims of the attacks is located on a peninsula at Sherwood Island State Park in Westport, where on a clear day the Manhattan skyline can be viewed across Long Island Sound. The memorial features stones engraved with the names of the 161 people with ties to Connecticut who were killed in the attacks. The state park was chosen as the site for the memorial because it is the location where, in the hours immediately following the attacks on that morning in 2001, many people gathered to observe the smoke and devastation on Lower Manhattan from across Long Island Sound.
