Richmond, VA – Gov. Bob McDonnell has issues a proclamation officially recognizing April 16, 2012 as Virginia Tech Remembrance Day in the Commonwealth.
There will be an official brief moment of silence Monday at 9:43 a.m., followed by the ringing of the Capitol Square Bell Tower once for each person who died in the shootings.
McDonnell will later go to the Virginia Tech for the University Commemoration and Candlelight Vigil.
From McDonnell's Press Release:
VIRGINIA TECH
REMEMBRANCE DAY
WHEREAS, on the
morning of April 16, 2007, a tragedy of immense magnitude and senselessness
befell the campus of the Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University;
and
WHEREAS, the lives of
32 individuals from the Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
were hastily taken, leaving absences that will never be filled and a profound
sense of sorrow in the lives of those impacted; and
WHEREAS, the community
continues to mourn those who perished, we also honor those individuals wounded
as they individually and collectively strive to prevail through this tragedy;
and
WHEREAS, we recognize
and thank local, state, and federal first responders who courageously answered
the call of duty in an effort to prevent the further loss of life; and
WHEREAS, the citizens
of the Commonwealth of Virginia join with those from across the country and
around the world in their thoughts and prayers to honor the cherished memories
of those who lost their lives and those wounded; and
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Robert F.
McDonnell, do hereby recognize April 16, 2012, as VIRGINIA TECH REMEMBRANCE
DAY in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to
the attention of all our citizens.
