Harrisburg – Governor Edward G. Rendell has issued a proclamation designating Tuesday, Sept. 11, as Patriot Day and has ordered flags at state facilities to be flown at half-staff in memory of the thousands of Americans who died in the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.

“In memory of all those whose lives were so tragically lost on Sept. 11, 2001, and in special recognition of courageous men and women everywhere who selflessly risk their own lives to save others and protect our liberty, I do hereby proclaim Sept. 11, 2007, Patriot Day in Pennsylvania,” the Governor’s proclamation states. “I encourage all citizens to observe this day with a moment of silence, remembrance ceremony, or expression of gratitude and patriotism and to make a personal pledge to honor and cherish the freedom, equality, and peace that defines America.”

The U.S. Congress has designated Sept. 11 of each year as Patriot Day in remembrance of those whose lives were lost and in honor of the heroes who were found.

In addition to ordering state flags to be flown at half-staff, the Governor has directed U.S. flags at state facilities to be flown at half-staff in accordance with the Presidential proclamation.

On Sept. 11, Governor Rendell is scheduled to participate in a remembrance service at the Flight 93 crash site temporary memorial in Somerset County.