CHARLESTON - Gov. Joe Manchin and First Lady Gayle Manchin were set to participate in a wreath-laying ceremony in honor of the 31 miners involved in the mine disaster at the Upper Big Branch Mine-South. The ceremony was scheduled to begin at 3:30 p.m. on Monday, April 12, at the Coal Miner Memorial Statue, located on the state capitol grounds near the Culture Center.
At an early morning press conference, Saturday last, Manchin announced that the four remaining missing miners had been found dead. This brought the total loss of life to 29 following an explosion at the mine Monday, April 5.
During the wreath-laying event, which was to take place just after press time, the governor planned to ask people from across the nation to join the first lady and him in a moment of silence to honor the fallen miners and their families. “We want to show the miners’ families and all of the first responders that we are keeping them in our hearts and prayers,” Gov. Joe Manchin said. “West Virginians are the most caring people and we come together in a time of need. These families are not alone and their loved ones will not be forgotten.”
This event, which was open to the public, marked the one-week anniversary of the mining disaster.
Last week, Gov. Joe Manchin ordered all state flags at all state-owned facilities lowered to half-staff in honor of the miners. The flags will remain lowered until further declaration by the governor.
In other developments, the West Virginia Council of Churches has established the Montcoal Mining Disaster Fund, and is now accepting donations to be distributed among the families of miners who were killed in Monday’s explosion at Performance Coal Company’s Upper Big Branch mine.
Individuals from across West Virginia and the nation have offered support for these families through prayer, condolences and donations.
Governor Manchin said, “The outpouring of support from fellow West Virginians, as well as citizens across the country, has been truly gratifying. The mining families continue to endure in this very tough time and will need as much support in the future as possible.”
“I appreciate the West Virginia Council of Churches and their efforts to assist these grieving families,” said Manchin.
Anyone who wishes to make a monetary contribution should contact the West Virginia Council of Churches at 304-344-3141 or visit http://www.- wvcc.org/ for details.
In addition, gifts and other items are being accepted for the families of the deceased miners at Appalachian Bible College. For details about non-monetary donations please visit http://www.- abc.edu/.