LANSING, Mich. -- Governor Gretchen Whitmer has ordered U.S. and Michigan flags across the state to be lowered to half-staff on Sept. 11 to honor and remember the heroes who lost their lives and those who sacrificed their lives for others.

This includes first responders who showed bravery in responding to the attacks and aiding the victims.

“Patriot Day serves as a reminder of the nearly 3,000 Americans we have lost and those who served our country on 9/11,” said Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II.

“24 years ago, first responders, servicemen, and everyday Americans rushed towards the fire, caring for the wounded and, in many cases, making the ultimate sacrifice. Today, I encourage all Michiganders to stand together and honor the heroes who sacrificed their lives for others and their beliefs.”

Michigan residents, businesses, schools, local governments, and other organizations are encouraged to display the flag at half-staff.

To lower flags to half-staff, flags should be hoisted first to the peak for an instant and then lowered to the half-staff position.

Flags should be returned to full staff on Sept. 12.

In Indiana. Governor Mike Braun has also directed that flags be flown at half-staff across the Hoosier state on Sept. 11 in observance of Patriot Day.

"The attacks of September 11 were an unspeakable tragedy. To the families who lost loved ones, my deepest condolences and most heartfelt prayers are with you. To all Hoosiers, as we remember the lives taken and the heroes who responded, may we also remember that what carried us through that dark time was not just our faith in our nation, but our faith in each other." said Gov. Mike Braun.

Gov. Braun encourages all Hoosier businesses and residents to join in lowering their flags to honor the memory of the victims and show respect to the heroes of 9/11.