WHEREAS, on September 11, 2001, the American people endured the worst terrorist attack on United States soil in the nation’s history; and
WHEREAS, while the attacks were meant to divide our great nation, Americans responded by standing together in a remarkable display of unity, resolve, and compassion for one another that represented the best of American spirit; and
WHEREAS, we will forever remember and honor the nearly 3,000 innocent Americans who lost their lives on that day, and think of their families, friends, and loved ones who continue to carry the memories of those lives forward; and
WHEREAS, we recognize and honor the heroism of the first responders – the firefighters, police, emergency personnel, health care providers, and citizens who came to the aid of others during, and immediately following the attacks, some of whom laid down their lives while helping to evacuate and rescue others; and
WHEREAS, on this day, we as Americans reflect on the importance of freedom, liberty, patriotism, and love of our country, and are grateful for the privileges and rights that we have as Americans; and
WHEREAS, let us honor and reflect on those we have lost, stand firm in our resolve to defend and preserve our great nation and freedom, and recommit to live in a spirit of unity and compassion that binds us together as Americans.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mike Dunleavy, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF ALASKA, do hereby proclaim September 11, 2020 as:
Patriot Day
in Alaska, and encourage all Alaskans to take this day as one of service and compassion as we remember the events of that fateful day. I also order all Alaska State flags to be flown at half-staff on September 11, 2020 to honor the victims and their families, and all our first responders, caregivers, and servicemen and women who protect the American people every day.
