Governor Tim Pawlenty today ordered that all U.S. and Minnesota flags be flown at half-staff at all state buildings in Minnesota from sunrise until sunset for a period of 30 days, in honor and tribute to the memory of President Gerald Ford. Governor Pawlenty followed President Bush’s request to fly the flag of the United States at half-staff at all federal buildings.

The following is the text of the Governor’s official proclamation:

WHEREAS: It is with deep sadness that Minnesota observes the passing of Gerald Rudolph Ford, the thirty-eighth President of the United States of America on December 26, 2006; and

WHEREAS: President Gerald R. Ford was a true American leader, serving in the United States Congress for 25 years before being appointed as Vice President and succeeding Richard Nixon as President of the United States in 1974; and

WHEREAS: After the Watergate scandal, President Gerald R. Ford faced the noble challenge of restoring the public’s faith in the executive office, renewing the depressed economy, and reducing the national deficit; and

WHEREAS: President Gerald R. Ford was dedicated to carrying our nation through a difficult time and succeeded in many ways. We are grateful for his perseverance, and as President Jimmy Carter proclaimed in his inaugural speech, “I want to thank my predecessor for all he has done to heal our land;” and

WHEREAS: President Gerald R. Ford's death has produced an outpouring of sympathy for his family and praise for his strength, leadership, and lifetime of public service.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, TIM PAWLENTY, Governor of Minnesota, upon direction of the President of the United States, George W. Bush, in honor and tribute to the memory of Gerald R. Ford, and as an expression of public sorrow, do hereby proclaim that all United States flags and all State of Minnesota flags shall be flown at half-staff at the State Capitol and on all buildings and grounds of the State of Minnesota for a period of 30 days from the day of his death.