DENVER --

To follow suit with today’s directive by President Barack Obama, Gov. Bill Ritter today ordered that both the United States flag and Colorado state flag be lowered on all public buildings throughout Colorado immediately, and to stay lowered until sunset on Tuesday, Nov. 10, to honor the memory of those who gave their lives during Thursday's Fort Hood tragedy.

Ritter issued this statement yesterday in commemoration of the victims:

“My thoughts and prayers are with the families of those who lost their lives and were injured today at Fort Hood. This senseless act of violence against the men and women who sacrifice so much for our country is truly tragic. I join all Americans in extending my deepest sympathies and condolences to everyone who was touched by this.”