Columbia, S. C. - Governor Jim Hodges on today issued the following statement on state and national security during a news conference at the State House.


Good afternoon. Like every South Carolinian I am horrified by the coordinated monstrous acts of terrorism we have witnessed in America today. I call on every South Carolinian to pray for the thousands of Americans who have lost their lives today. I also ask that you pray and keep in your hearts the families all across America who have suffered such a shocking loss today. To honor those that have died today as well as their families, I have ordered flags at the State House to be flown at half-mast.

Let there be no mistake, such an attack on our country only strengthens our democratic spirit. I stand firmly with President Bush as he leads us in this time of challenge. I am confident that together we will meet this challenge and work to better ensure the safety and security of every American.

It is important to note that there has been no direct threat to the security of our state. I have directed that all appropriate measures be taken to increase the safety and security of our citizens.

However, I have met with our state's constitutional officers as well as those responsible for the security of our state and the protection of our all South Carolinians. This morning we immediately stepped up security at state government offices, our state's Port in Charleston and other key governmental facilities.

As of noon today, the State Emergency Operations Center is open. In addition, I have ordered the National Guard to call in all critical personnel. The balance of the National Guard remains on standby. SLED and other law enforcement personnel are in full force. As of right now, the business of the State of South Carolina continues. Offices will remain open for business with additional security.

At this time, everything appears safe and secure in South Carolina. Thank God.

This afternoon I will fax a letter to Governor George Pataki of New York offering any assistance we can give as they work to locate and save survivors amidst the World Trade Center tower rubble. Our state's firefighters and guardsmen may be called upon to assist in the search and rescue in New York City. We will expedite any request we receive from any other state for assistance in dealing with this coordinated terrorist attack.

As you can see, we in South Carolina stand united in working to insure the safety and security of every South Carolinian. Let's us move forward with a renewed sense of resolve in the power of the American spirit and let us be so very thankful for the safety today of our family.