Gov. Gregoire honors victims of Sept. 11 terrorist attacks

For Immediate Release: September 11, 2008

TACOMA � Gov. Chris Gregoire today helped lead a moment of silence and a formal flag lowering to remember and honor the victims of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.

�We must never forget the thousands of innocent people who died seven years ago, and the hundreds of first responders who gave their lives to save so many others,� Gregoire said.

The ceremony took place at the Firefighter�s Memorial in Tacoma. Gregoire was joined by Tacoma Mayor Bill Baarsma and Tacoma Fire Chief Ron Stephens.

�Tacoma continues to commemorate this Day of Remembrance. We�ve done this consistently because it�s important to us,� Stephens said. �I�m proud that we come together for this brief time to honor those who lost their lives that day � and to remember. Together, we make this statement: America, we in Tacoma have not forgotten.�

Gregoire introduced Colin Sterr, a former Tacoma firefighter now serving in New York City. She also acknowledged the first responders in attendance at the memorial.

�We live in world where heightened safety and security are paramount,� Gregoire said. �You are the men and women who make our country strong. You deserve this nation�s unwavering support for your daily dedication and courage, and I�m one American who has and will continue to support you in any way I can.�

Gregoire has directed that flags at all Washington agency facilities be flown at half-staff Thursday for national Patriot Day, the annual observance to remember the victims of the 2001 tragedy.