CONNECTICUT — Connecticut Monday was remembering former President Jimmy Carter.
Just minutes after Gov. Ned Lamont announced that he is directing U.S. and state flags in Connecticut lowered to half-staff Monday morning, Trooper Jeremy Shepard had the honors at the state police Troop C barracks in Tolland.
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Carter served as the 39th President of the United States from 1977 to 1981. He was awarded the 2002 Nobel Peace Prize for work to find peaceful solutions to international conflicts, to advance democracy and human rights, and to promote economic and social development, according to the White House. Carter died Sunday at his Plains, GA, home. He was 100.
U.S. and state flags in Connecticut will remain at half-staff until sunset on Jan. 28 in honor of “the life and legacy of President Jimmy Carter,” Lamont said. U.S. Code (4 U.S.C. § 7m) requires the U.S. flag to be flown at half-staff for a period of 30 days following the death of a president or former president. Accordingly, since no flag should fly higher than the U.S. flag, all other flags, including, municipal, corporate, schools or otherwise, should also be lowered during this same duration of time Lamont said.
Here’s what Connecticut had to say about Carter’s legacy:
Governor Ned Lamont
“President Carter will be remembered in history as one of our nation’s most humble presidents, whose honorable service to the United States began when he enlisted in the Navy and was stationed for several years in Connecticut at Naval Submarine Base New London. Upon being elected to office as governor of Georgia and continuing throughout his presidency, he championed many of the biggest and most notable causes of the era, including desegregation, human rights, early childhood development programs, prison reform, and more. He has one of the most noteworthy and prominent post-presidency careers of any U.S. president, volunteering his time on the international stage to provide diplomatic and peacekeeping efforts in places such as Israel, Palestine, North Korea, South Africa, and Syria, and maintaining an active level of involvement as an advocate for Habitat for Humanity to promote for the availability of housing for all.
“President Carter’s style of leadership set an example that ought to be emulated by public officials nationwide, most notably his self-effacing and kind disposition. He carried himself with grace and integrity, treated others with dignity and respect regardless of whether they were a political ally or foe, and above all worked to implement policies that make our country a more equitable place for all to live and thrive. On behalf of the State of Connecticut, I extend my deepest condolences to the Carter family. Our hearts are with them at this time of mourning, and we thank them for everything they have given to our country.”
Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz
“Jimmy Carter represented the best of us. A man of generosity, patience – and above all, kindness. I had the privilege of witnessing those qualities firsthand when in 1978, President Carter joined Governor Ella Grasso in Hartford to fundraise for her second term. As a student journalist for my high school newspaper, I met President Carter during that visit. He was very patient and took the time to answer my questions. The following year, his press secretary Jody Powell was kind enough to invite our high school newspaper to attend a presidential press conference at the White House. Experiences like these are what ultimately inspired me to pursue a career in public service, law, and advocacy.
“Throughout his presidency, and even after he left office, President Carter was known for committing his time and talents to the service of others. He made democracy and human rights a central focus – consistently focused on peacekeeping and diplomacy efforts. As a former secretary of the state, I always appreciated his work to promote free and fair elections in our country and around the world. Led by his faith to help the less fortunate, President Carter dedicated countless hours to building homes with Habitat for Humanity.
“Jimmy Carter was a man from humble beginnings who went on to change the world. He will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to his country, his steadfast belief in democracy, and ultimately his kindness and sacrifice. My heart goes out to his family.”
State Sen. Jeff Gordon
“I am saddened to hear the news that former President Jimmy Carter passed away at 100. His four years of service as our country’s 39th President took place during challenging times of 1977-1981. His decades of service after he left the White House are a shining example of dedication to, love for, and faith in his community, and communities across the country and the world. He worked to make the world better than he found it, and this has been the inspirational ethic of the Carter Center and Habitat for Humanity. Carter was also a veteran, serving in the Navy, then the Naval Reserve. I offer my condolences, thoughts, and prayers to the Carter family.”
Connecticut Senate Minority Leader Siephen Harding
“A century of life: and a life well-lived … Decades of dedicated public service to our country … President Carter always put family – and philanthropy – first.
“Always humble and true to his rural farming roots, he was laser-focused on improving the quality of life for everyone. He did it through peace efforts and kindness, through initiatives like Habitat for Humanity and through a host of human rights and public health causes. President Carter’s passion to help the most vulnerable among us was infectious, and his relentless energy drew support across party lines.
“We honor that legacy and that staunch commitment to community today as we consider the positive and widespread lasting impact President Carter has had on our world.
“Our nation is grateful. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Carter family.”
U.S. Rep. Joe Courtney
“America lost a great man today. President Jimmy Carter personified the highest form of public service, not just as Governor and President, but as an ensign in the U.S. Navy who rose to be one of Admiral Hyman G. Rickover’s select officers at the birth of the ‘Nuclear Navy.’
“In 2005, when the Navy sought to close Submarine Base New London, former President Carter stood by ‘Team Connecticut’ in opposition to a plan which would have moved the Base’s fleet to his home state of Georgia. His decision to support ‘Team Connecticut’ in the face of political pressure at home represents the integrity and honor he served with throughout his life. Today, eastern Connecticut maintains our proud role as Submarine Capital of the World thanks to former President Carter. I join the American people in sending my deepest condolences and gratitude to the Carter family for his lifetime of service.”
Greenwich First Selectman Fred Camillo
” While I did not vote for him and certainly did not agree with him politically, I salute the 39th President’s service to his country on many levels … Navy, state senate in Georgia, Governor of Georgia, and as President. However, I believe his commitment to service to others after his Presidency is his greatest legacy. From building houses for the poor to advocating for democracy abroad, Jimmy Carter never stopped working, never stopped trying to make a difference. For that alone, he will be remembered fondly.”
U.S. Rep Jahana Hayes
“Today, our nation mourns the passing of Nobel laureate and former President Jimmy Carter.
“During his presidency and in the decades after, President Carter served as an advocate for peace, human rights, and democracy.
“His work with Habitat for Humanity inspired me to introduce my students to service and has helped build strength, stability and self reliance for so many through shelter.
“My thoughts and prayers are with the Carter family during this time and I thank him for his lifetime of service.”
State Sen. Tony Hwang
“Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter exemplified the true meaning of public service, demonstrating unwavering character, humility, and a lifelong commitment to making the world a better place.
“Beyond his presidency, his work with Habitat for Humanity, global health initiatives, and peace-building efforts defined a legacy of compassion and action.
“His impact reminds us that leadership is measured not only by time in office, but by the enduring difference one makes in the lives of others.”
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