Conn. honors memory of those killed on Sept. 11

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — Connecticut joined the nation Tuesday in honoring those killed in the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, with observances across the state on the 11th anniversary.

Gov. Dannel P. Malloy, who's in China on a trade mission, said in a statement that the grief and sorrow felt for friends, neighbors and strangers is close to residents' hearts despite the time that has passed.

"It's a day to keep in mind the dangers we still face, a time to renew our resolve to keep each other safe from harm, and to give thanks to all those in uniform for the work they do," Malloy said.

The state's annual observances began Monday evening at Sherwood Island State Park in Westport, where the names of 153 victims with state ties were read. Lt. Gov. Nancy Wyman told family members their presence "has meaning far beyond words" in reminding the nation of their sacrifice.

At the state Capitol, a replica of the Liberty Bell was rung eleven times Tuesday morning at 8:46 a.m., marking the time that the first hijacked plane struck the World Trade Center. A moment of silence followed at the ceremony conducted by the state Capitol police.

With bagpipes humming in the background, officials in Groton including Mystic Fire Chief Frank Hilbert raised a flag to half-staff in a ceremony at the Ella T. Grasso Southeastern Vocational Technical School. The event was organized by science teacher Sandi LaPierre-Jameson.

"I think it's important the students know how important it is — how dramatic it was for our country," LaPierre-Jameson told The Day of New London.

Other events Tuesday included an observance in Bridgeport with a reading of names of emergency workers who died.

Malloy ordered state flags flown at half-staff on Tuesday. President Barack Obama also ordered U.S. flags to be lowered.

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