HARTFORD - Governor Dannel P. Malloy on Tuesday, December 6, announced that he is directing US and State of Connecticut flags to be lowered to half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Wednesday, December 7, 2016, in recognition of National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. The national observation honors the lives lost in the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941.

In addition, the governor also announced that the Pearl Harbor Memorial Bridge in New Haven - informally known as the Q Bridge - will be illuminated in red, white, and blue lights on the evenings of Tuesday, December 6, and Wednesday, December 7, in observation of the remembrance. Beacons capable of projecting light nearly six miles into the clear night sky will be lit in those colors from sunset until 1 am during those nights. The bridge is named in honor of those who served during the attack.

Gov Malloy said, "This year marks exactly 75 years since the devastating attack, which took the lives of over 2,400 members of the military and civilians, in addition to the thousands who were wounded. These men and women - and all of those who valiantly served our nation in World War II - represent the incredible heroism and sacrifice that members of our military and their families make in order to stand up for our freedoms. We are grateful for their defense of our democracy, and we will always honor and remember what their service has provided for the United States."

Lieutenant Governor Nancy Wyman said, "Today we remember the thousands of soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines who fell at Pearl Harbor, and honor all of the veterans who fought. Seventy-five years after the attack, these heroes still inspire us with recollections of unity, bravery, and service to our country. They leave us a legacy - freedom and democracy that is now ours to protect. We're grateful for their sacrifices and thank them for their service."

The flag of the State of Connecticut is also currently flying at half-staff in honor of State Representative Betty Boukus, who passed away on Friday. State flags should also return to full-staff for this purpose at sunset on Wednesday, December 7.