WHEREAS, on May 31, 2019, a tragic act of violence occurred at the Virginia Beach Municipal Center—deeply affecting the City of Virginia Beach, the Commonwealth of Virginia, and the nation; and

WHEREAS, twelve individuals lost their lives in this devastating attack, leaving an immeasurable void in the community and in the hearts of their families, friends, and colleagues, who continue to feel their profound loss each day; and

WHEREAS, five others were wounded, and many more were profoundly affected, including employees working in Building Two of the Municipal Center, first responders, members of the city workforce, families, friends, and residents throughout Virginia Beach and beyond, whose unwavering strength, courage, and resilience continue to be honored; and

WHEREAS, the greater Virginia Beach community, the Commonwealth of Virginia, and individuals across the country stand in unity to offer enduring support, remembrance, and compassion as we honor the twelve lives lost and recognize all those whose lives were forever changed by this tragedy; and

WHEREAS, we honor the courage, dedication, and enduring legacy of: Laquita C. Brown, Ryan Keith Cox, Tara Welch Gallagher, Mary Louise Crutsinger Gayle, Alexander Mikhail Gusev, Joshua O. Hardy, Michelle Langer, Richard H. Nettleton, Katherine A. Lusich Nixon, Christopher Kelly Rapp, Herbert Snelling, Robert Williams; and

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Abigail D. Spanberger, do hereby recognize May 31, 2026, as LOVE FOR VIRGINIA BEACH DAY in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.