Larry Hogan expressed support this week for flying USA flags at half-staff to recognize five USA troops killed during a shooting rampage in Chattanooga, Tenn., after conservatives and veterans groups criticized President Obama for not quickly issuing such an order.
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“The people of Pennsylvania stand with the victims, their friends and families, and all Tennesseans after the senseless act of violence in Chattanooga last week”, Wolf said in a statement. Earnest had almost the same response for reporters Tuesday.
He also ordered flags at embassies, consulates, military facilities and naval vessels overseas to be flown at half-staff.
Rep. Mac Thornberry, R-Texas, chairman of the Armed Services Committee, lauded the move Tuesday morning and said it should be an example to Obama.
“Last week, America lost five service members”, he said.
“Today, Speaker Boehner has ordered the flags at the Capitol to be flown at half-staff”, he added.
Republicans had called on Obama to lower the flag before he announced that he would do so on Tuesday.
The directive is in place until sunset Saturday.
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Authorities say a 24-year-old Kuwait-born man attacked the two facilities, killing four Marines and a sailor.
