Gov. Linda Lingle has ordered that all state of Hawaii flags be flown at half-staff at all state and county buildings on Thursday, Sept. 11, to commemorate Patriot Day.

The U.S. Congress passed a measure creating Patriot Day about three months after the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon on Sept. 11, 2001.

Nearly 3,000 people, including several with Hawaii ties, were killed in the attacks.

U.S. flags will also be flown at half-staff.

Lingle said in a proclamation that: "Those left behind carried on the legacy of their loved ones. The aftermath of this horrific event has resonated across our nation and around the world. Though the peace and security we once took for granted within our own borders was destroyed, we ignited the enduring spirit of our nation and strengthened the unity of the American people with our resolve for freedom, justice and democracy."