Statement of Governor Perdue Regarding the Virginia Tech Tragedy

ATLANTA – Governor Sonny Perdue issued the following statement today regarding yesterday’s tragic events in Virginia:

"Mary and I are deeply saddened by the tragedy that occurred on the campus of Virginia Tech. Among the victims are a student and professor from Georgia. Our solemn prayers are with the families and friends of those impacted by yesterday’s heartbreaking events."

Governor Perdue signed an executive order today ordering all state flags lowered to half staff until sunset Sunday, April 22, consistent with a proclamation issued today by President Bush. The text of the executive order is below:

Whereas: Today the citizens of Georgia mourn for the students and faculty who lost their lives during the tragic events at Virginia Polytechnical Institute on Monday, April 16, 2007; and

Whereas: The people of Georgia share the grief of the families and friends of those who were killed and injured.

Now, therefore, in honor and as a mark of respect for the memory of those affected by this tragedy, pursuant to the authority vested in me as Governor of the State of Georgia, It is hereby

Ordered: That the flag of the United States and the flag of this State be flown at half-staff on all state buildings and grounds from this date until sunset Sunday, April 22, 2007.