Jan. 2, 2005 – As the number of deaths from the tsunami disaster grows to an estimated 150,000 and it is being called the largest natural disaster of modern times, acting Gov. Vargrave Richards has directed the flags of the territory to be flown at half-staff for a week in mourning for the victims.
A press release Sunday from Government House said the disaster has also made millions homeless in twelve countries in south Asia.
Richards said "We join the nation in lowering all flags to half-staff as a sign of our grief and condolences to all who have lost loved ones or are suffering as a result of this terrible tragedy."
Richards added, "Words cannot express the grief we feel towards those suffering and call on Virgin Islanders to share generously, as is customary, by sending donations to ongoing aid relief efforts. As we look at the ravages of the destruction caused by the tsunami, we recognize that we are abundantly blessed and should be thankful and grateful, and thus willingly extend our hands and resources to help."
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