HONOLULU — Gov. Josh Green ordered the U.S. and Hawaii state flags be lowered to honor the lives lost on Sept. 11, 2001, and to mark Patriot Day. 

Congress declared Sept. 11 as Patriot Day with a joint resolution on Dec. 18, 2001. Then, on April 21, 2009, Congress also called for the annual observance of Sept. 11 as a National Day of Service and Remembrance.

The flags will be flown at half-staff at the Hawaii State Capitol and all state offices and agencies as well as the Hawaii National Guard from Thursday to Monday.  

“Even though the September 11 attacks happened 23 years ago, we continue to carry the memory of those we lost. It was a tragic event that will never be forgotten, yet it was also a time where we witnessed absolute heroism, compassion and resilience,” said Green in a statement. “My heartfelt condolences go out to the families who lost their loved ones on this day.”