U.S. President Barack Obama has ordered government offices around the country to have the flag of the United States be flown at half-staff for the next few days to pay respects to the victims of the deadly terrorist attacks in Paris on Friday.
"The American people stand with the people of France," Pres. Obama stated on Sunday.
"Friday's terror attacks were not just an attack on Paris; they were an attack on all humanity and the universal values we share, including the bonds of liberté, égalité, and fraternité."
As a sign of respect to all the people affected by the attacks, the president said the American flag at the White House and all public grounds and buildings throughout the U.S. and its Territories will be flown at half-staff until the sunset of Nov. 19.
All U.S. embassies, consular offices, legations and other government offices overseas, including military bases and naval vessels, will also place the American at half-mast.
Despite the deadly assault this weekend that left 129 people dead and hundreds more injured, Pres. Obama asserted that the United States and its allies will not give in to fear nor will they be divided by such terror tactics.
He said they will work together with other nations and do whatever it takes to bring those responsible for the deadly attacks to justice, and go after the terrorist groups that threaten the people.
In support of the president's stand, House Speaker Paul Ryan has also instructed officials at the Capitol to have the American flag flown at half-mast.
"Out of respect and solidarity, I have ordered that flags at the Capitol be flown at half-staff in honor of the victims of the Paris attacks," Ryan said.
At least one U.S. citizen, 23-year-old California State University student Nohemi Gonzalez, was one of those killed during the attacks, according to school officials.
Gonzalez was in Paris to study at the Strate College of Design as part of Cal State's study abroad program.
"Our university stands with our nearly eighty foreign exchange students from France as they struggle with this tragedy," Cal State President Jane Close Conoley said.
"We will extend all support necessary to comfort them. We will also extend support to all students, faculty and staff who are in need."
The Islamic State has since claimed responsibility for the violence that took place on Friday.
Photo: Naval Surface Warriors | Flickr
