Patriotism and precautions still linger in Illinois and its cities two years after terrorists attacked New York’s World Trade Center.

On Sept. 9, Gov. Rod Blagojevich proclaimed Sept. 11 “Patriot Day” in Illinois.

“9/11 will always be a day of remembrance,” said Angelynne Amores, the governor’s press secretary. “The governor is asking that citizens take a moment of silence for 60 seconds at 7:46 a.m. and that flags are flown at half-staff.”

His official proclamation states, “Whereas this two year anniversary, as well as any anniversaries subsequent, shall be a time both of remembrance and renewed commitment to freedom… I Rod R. Blagojevich, Governor of the State of Illinois, do hereby proclaim September 11, 2003 as Patriot Day in Illinois.”

“I call on all citizens of the State of Illinois to observe one minute of silence at 7:46 a.m. in commemoration of lives lost, and order all State facilities to fly flags at half-mast for the course of the day.”

The written proclamation cites the loss of 3,000 lives on American soil and the heroism of responders that “redefined the American spirit” among the reasoning for commemoration.

State and nation-wide campaigns for liberty, protection and continued action “to leave our children a world that is safer from the threat of terrorism” also led to the Patriot Day naming.

Amores said Blagojevich is also taking a plan of action today to keep neighborhoods and communities safe from terrorism.

“The governor will work with the first responders to provide the equipment they need,” she said.

Flags will be flown at half-staff locally as the city reflects on Sept. 11’s two-year anniversary.

In the past two years, Mayor Dan Cougill said the city has increased precautions to keep citizens protected.

“We’ve had officers get special training in terrorist response,” Cougill said.

During April and June, the East-Central Illinois Law Enforcement Training Team offered chemical and biological weapon training.

Officer supervisors and interested police officers attended eight-hour classes with lectures and videos explaining how to be prepared for and handle potentially dangerous situations.

“We had not only select officers trained,” Cougill said. “They have trained other officers.”

Special training was offered to the fire department as well as the police.

“The fire department is now equipped and trained to handle hazardous material in a further manner,” Cougill said.

Charleston combined efforts with Eastern and surrounding cities to react in case of an emergency.

“We’ve purchased complimentary equipment with our sister city Mattoon in case of an event,” Cougill said. “When we have increased elevation, we are more vigilant over certain resources.”

The city is taking as many precautions as possible to be prepared for emergencies.

“The better prepared you are, the less chance you ever have to use it,” Cougill said.

City Editor Carly Mullady can be reached at [email protected].