Statement of Governor Perdue Regarding the Passing of President Ronald Reagan

ATLANTA , GA - Governor Sonny Perdue issued the following statement today regarding the passing of President Ronald Reagan:

"Mary and I join the American people in mourning the passing of President Reagan. At a time when our nation was struggling to find its sense of purpose, President Reagan's optimism and commitment to our founding principles restored faith in our country and renewed America 's enduring spirit. He boldly advanced the cause of freedom to every corner of the world, leading to the end of the Cold War, and his confidence in our nation's economy led to one of the strongest periods of economic growth in U.S. history.

"Our nation has known many great leaders, and President Reagan will be remembered in history as one of the greatest. He made each one of us proud to be an American. He instilled in all of us the belief that everyone can achieve the American Dream.

"In the twilight of his life, as she had done for half a century, his beloved Nancy stood by her husband. Today, we extend our condolences to her and the entire Reagan family. May God continue to bless the nation that President Reagan so deeply loved and honorably served, and may we always strive to be that shining city upon a hill."

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.