HARTFORD— Governor Ned Lamont announced May 24 that he is directing U.S. and Connecticut flags to fly at half-staff on Monday, May 27, 2019 from sunrise until noon in observation of Memorial Day. As is customary for the holiday, flags are lowered throughout the morning and then raised to full-staff at noon. Accordingly, since no flag should fly higher than the U.S. flag, all other flags, including state, municipal, corporate, or otherwise, should also be lowered during this same duration of time.

In addition, Governor Lamont announced that the state will illuminate the Pearl Harbor Memorial Bridge in New Haven – informally known as the Q Bridge – in red, white, and blue lights beginning on the evening of Friday, May 24, and continuing each night through Monday, May 27, to honor those who have given their lives in service. Multicolored beacons capable of projecting light nearly six miles into the clear night sky will beam from sunset until 1:00 a.m. each night. The bridge carries I-95 over the Quinnipiac River and is maintained by the Connecticut Department of Transportation.

Governor Lamont said, “The decision to join a branch of the United States military is one of the most selfless acts anyone can make. These men and women dedicate themselves to protecting the freedoms that define the foundation of the United States, and in many instances, they risk their lives doing so. We owe so much to those who protect our nation, and on Memorial Day we pay tribute to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. They will forever have our respect and our gratitude, and we will always honor their service to our country.”

Lt. Governor Bysiewicz said, “As Americans, we should all remember that freedom comes at a great cost. During this time national remembrance, our hearts are with every military family in Connecticut and across the country missing a loved one and our thoughts are with the brave men and women who died in service to our country. May we continue to share their stories, to honor their sacrifice, and to appreciate the opportunities and privileges that our fallen soldiers have paid for with their lives.”