WHEREAS, on the fifth anniversary of September 11, 2001, we recall the tragic events of that day; and

        WHEREAS, America will always remember the thousands of innocent lives taken by the enemies of freedom that morning; and

        WHEREAS, in the face of these unspeakable attacks, we were reminded that the great strength of America is found in the hearts of its citizens. We witnessed firefighters, police officers, other public safety officials, and ordinary Americans demonstrate extraordinary courage, risking their lives to save innocent victims. We saw our country united in compassion as Americans came together to provide relief and bring hope to others; and

        WHEREAS, today, America is fighting a war that is testing our Nation's resolve. We are once again answering history's call with confidence, and we know that freedom will prevail. Our brave men and women in uniform continue to step forward to fight our enemies abroad so that we do not have to face them at home, and we are grateful; and

        WHEREAS, September 11^th, 2001 made clear that, in the long run, the only way to secure our Nation is to advance liberty and democracy as the great alternatives to repression and radicalism. By working together with our friends and allies, we are helping spread the blessings of freedom and laying the foundations of peace for generations to come; and

        WHEREAS, the events of September 11, 2001, will always be a defining moment in our history. We hold the victims, their families and friends in our hearts, and our prayers; and

        WHEREAS, Congress, by a joint resolution approved December 18, 2001 (Public Law 107-89), has designated September 11 of each year as "Patriot Day"; and

        WHEREAS, on September 7, 2006 President George W. Bush declared September 11, 2006 to be “Patriot Day” throughtout the United States.

        NOW THEREFORE, I, JAMES E. RISCH, Governor of the State of Idaho, do hereby proclaim September 11, 2006, to be

PATRIOT  DAY

in Idaho, and do direct that the flag be flown at half mast by all appropriate public officials within the State of Idaho.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused to be affixed the Great Seal of the State of Idaho at the Capitol in Boise on this 11th day of September in the year of our Lord two thousand and six and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred thirty-first and of the Statehood of Idaho the one hundred seventeenth.

BEN YSURSA
SECRETARY OF STATE