 Calls for Statewide Moment of Silence at 8:46 a.m. State, National Flags to Fly at Half Staff Wednesday September 10, 2002
Knowles called on Alaskans to observe a moment of silence on Wednesday at 8:46 a.m. (local time), the time of the first attack in New York, and ordered state and national flags in Alaska to be flown at half-staff. "As clocks on America's eastern shore ticked 8:46 a.m., most Alaskans were still in slumber, while terror was striking our great nation, punching a hole deep into the heart of America," Knowles said in his proclamation. "The images of destruction and death at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and in a field in rural Pennsylvania will be forever etched on the minds of every Alaskan, of all Americans, and of people in every corner of the world. America has been changed forever since those tragic events of just one year ago." While the nation grieves the thousands who perished at the hands of cowards bent on destruction, Knowles said we are also a thankful nation for those who responded to the tragedy of 9-11, every one of them a hero. "Help came unselfishly from every corner of our nation, including Alaska-for the injured, for the emotionally devastated, and for the families of those whose lives ended on that Tuesday morning," Knowles said. "The days since have been marked by incredible bravery, amazing self-sacrifice, and an extraordinary appreciation for those who work to protect us every day. We join the President and Congress in recognizing our heroes as patriots." We are also a healing nation, the Governor said. While the wounds of this inexplicable tragedy will never fully mend, America will rebuild, relying on our strong faith and our commitment to our heritage. With the help of ceremonies of remembrance throughout the land, America's recovery continues. And we are a nation at war, Knowles noted. "In faraway lands our military is fighting against terror and for justice. In America, uniformed men and women are protecting our homeland. Today, as we gather to remember the suffering while embracing family and friends, we are a much stronger nation, committed like never before to protecting our unsurpassed freedoms." In proclaiming September 11 as Patriot Day in Alaska, Knowles urged all Alaskans to pause for a moment of silence at 8:46 a.m. Wednesday, to remember those who lost their lives, honor those who risk their lives to protect us today, and reflect on our America, a nation still strong, still proud and always free. Knowles joined President George W. Bush in ordering state and national flags to be flown at half-staff throughout the day on Wednesday, September 11, 2002. On September 11, Gov. Knowles will attend a noon prayer service at Anchorage Town Square and will speak at the Anchorage Community Remembrance ceremony at 7.p.m. at the Performing Arts Center. Lt. Gov. Fran Ulmer will attend the community remembrance at Juneau's Centennial Hall at 7 p.m.
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