Gov. Ritter Orders Flags Lowered on Columbine Anniversary
Gov. Bill Ritter has ordered all U.S. and Colorado flags lowered on state and federal buildings inColorado on Monday, April 20, 2009, in honor of the 10th anniversary of the Columbine High Schoolshootings, and in remembrance of the innocent victims who died that day.
On April, 20, 1999, 12 students and one teacher were killed and 23 other people were wounded atColumbine High School. Those who died: Cassie Bernall, Steve Curnow, Corey DePooter, Kelly Fleming, Matt Kechter, Daniel Mauser, Daniel Rohrbough, Rachel Scott, Isaiah Shoels, John Tomlin, Lauren Townsend, Kyle Velasquez and Dave Sanders.
“Columbine was a watershed event in Colorado and United States history,” Gov. Ritter said. “It is a moment that will continue to live in our memories, as people to this day remember exactly where they were when they first heard about the tragedy unfolding in Jefferson County.
“The deaths of so many school children and their teacher marked a tremendous loss of innocence inAmerica, and their memories must not be forgotten. This event had a resounding impact throughout the state and nation, as children and parents lost their sense of security and safety within their own communities. Our work to keep students safe and secure must be ongoing, and we must remain ever-vigilant. We cannot allow the lessons of this tragedy to fade with the passage of time. The families of those who died that day remain in our thoughts and prayers.”
