Statement of Governor Perdue Regarding the Passing of President Gerald Ford

Statement of Governor Perdue Regarding the Passing of President Gerald Ford

ATLANTA – Governor Sonny Perdue issued the following statement today regarding the passing of President Gerald Ford:

“Mary and I join the American people in mourning the passing of President Ford. President Ford served a long, distinguished career in the U.S. House of Representatives, before being appointed vice president and less than a year later ascending to the presidency. He is most remembered for helping our nation heal during one of our most difficult times. Once, when asked about his legacy, President Ford stated that he simply wanted to be remembered as restoring dignity to the office and trust in its holder. Through his courageous leadership in ending 'our long national nightmare,' President Ford did just that, and we are a better nation because of his selfless service.

“In the years following his term in office, he continued to represent our country with dignity and honor with his characteristic good humor and quiet faith. His wife, Betty, has also impacted countless lives with her dedication to helping those fighting addiction to alcohol and drugs. Today, we extend our condolences to her and the entire Ford family.”

Governor Perdue signed an executive order today ordering all state flags lowered to half staff for a period of mourning of 30 days consistent with federal law. The text of the executive order is below:

Whereas: Gerald R. Ford served as the 38th President of the United States from 1974-1977 following service as Vice President and a 25-year career in the United States House of Representatives; and

Whereas: President Ford assumed the Presidency under extraordinary circumstances, and helped to restore the nation’s confidence in the Presidency; and

Whereas: The American people will always admire Gerald Ford’s personal integrity and the honorable conduct of his administration.
Now, therefore, in honor and as a mark of respect for the memory of President Gerald R. Ford and his family and friends, pursuant to the authority vested in me as Governor of the State of Georgia, it is hereby

Ordered: That the flags on all state buildings throughout the State of Georgia be flown at half-staff from the day of his passing, until sunset thirty days thereafter, January 25, 2007.

This 27th day of December, 2006.

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