Today, our thoughts and prayers are with the families and loved ones of all of those touched by the tragedy at Virginia Tech, three years ago, on April, 16 2007.  The Bell Tower at Virginia Tech rang 32 times this morning in remembrance and honor of the 32 individuals who lost their lives at Virginia Tech on April 16th, 2007.  The Governor also issued a Proclamation today recognizing April 16th as "Virginia Tech Remembrance Day," calling this observance to the attention of all of the citizens of the Commonwealth.  

WHEREAS, on the morning of April 16, 2007, a tragedy of immense magnitude and senselessness befell the campus of the Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University; and

WHEREAS, the lives of 32 individuals from the Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University were hastily taken, leaving absences that will never be filled and a profound sense of sorrow in the lives of those impacted; and

WHEREAS, the community continues to mourn those who perished, we also honor those individuals wounded as they individually and collectively strive to prevail through this tragedy; and

WHEREAS, we recognize and thank local, state, and federal first responders who courageously answered the call of duty in an effort to prevent the further loss of life; and

WHEREAS, the citizens of the Commonwealth of Virginia join with those from across the country and around the world in their thoughts and prayers to honor the cherished memories of those who lost their lives and those wounded; and

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Robert F. McDonnell, do hereby recognize April 16, 2010, as VIRGINIA TECH REMEMBRANCE DAY in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.