RALEIGH ń Gov. Mike Easley today ordered all state government offices to lower their flags to half staff on Thursday in recognition of Patriot Day. Congress authorized the federal observance to honor victims and survivors of the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks on our nation.

ěWe can never forget those who lost their lives on 9-11,î said Easley. ěWe honor their memory along with the heroes who responded that day. I ask all citizens to join me in this tribute by displaying the American flag at half staff at their homes.î

The president has asked all states and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico to join in this effort and asks all Americans to observe a moment of silence at 8:46 a.m., the time the first plane struck the World Trade Center in New York City.