First Selectman Dan Rosenthal, along with Governor Ned Lamont and Lt Governor Susan Bysiewicz have issued statements memorializing those lost, and sending support to the entire community of friends, neighbors, co-workers, and survivors ready to mark the tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School on Monday, December 14.

“It’s hard to believe that it has been eight years since that awful day,” Rosenthal told The Newtown Bee. “We will never forget December 14th and the 26 beautiful souls who were cruelly taken. They will always be in our hearts and at the forefront of our minds.

“Let us also remember that every day is hard for the families that lost so much and their pain is not marked in years, but in every second that has passed,” the first selectman said. “May the power of love and community continue to guide us to help bring peace and comfort to the families.”

“The memories of the 20 young children and six educators whose lives were tragically taken on that horrible morning eight years ago will forever remain in our hearts,” Governor Lamont said. “We can continue to honor them by performing acts of kindness, love, and humanity that brighten the lives of others and bring comfort to our community.”

“Our hearts are heavy today as we mark eight years since 20 beautiful children – Charlotte, Daniel, Olivia, Josephine, Ana, Dylan, Madeleine, Catherine, Chase, Jesse, James, Grace, Emilie, Jack, Noah, Caroline, Jessica, Benjamin, Avielle, and Allison – and six courageous adults – Dawn, Mary, Vicki, Lauren, Rachel, and Anne Marie – were taken from us all too soon,” Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz said.

Lamont is directing US and State of Connecticut flags to be lowered to half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Monday, December 14, in remembrance of those who were killed at SHES. Accordingly, since no flag should fly higher than the US flag, all other flags –—including state, municipal, corporate, or otherwise — should also be lowered during this same duration of time.

Bysiewicz further noted, “In the hours, days, and months that followed one of the most tragic days in our history, we saw an unprecedented outpouring of kindness and hope from millions of people across the state and country that showed only light and love can drive out darkness and hate. We must continue to protect the core values of humankind — love and unity — and ensure these principles serve as our guidepost for every facet of our lives. Newtown, my heart is with you today and always.”