Flags at half-staff in Minnesota

Star Tribune

Last update: November 6, 2009 - 8:37 PM

Following the lead of President Obama, Gov. Tim Pawlenty ordered all U.S. and Minnesota flags at state buildings to be flown at half-staff in remembrance of those killed or wounded at Fort Hood in Texas on Thursday.

His proclamation, issued Friday, directed that the flags remain lowered until sunset Saturday.

The proclamation reads, in part, "our thoughts and prayers are with the victims of this terrible tragedy and their families."

Two soldiers from Minnesota were caught in the shooting rampage. Pfc. Kham Xiong of St. Paul was killed; Specialist Keara Bono Torkelson of Otsego was wounded.

BOB VON STERNBERG