Virginia, McDonnell join West Virginia, Manchin in moment of silence for dead coal miners

Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell (R) was joined by Lt. Gov. Bill Bolling (R) and Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli (R) for a moment of silence this afternoon in memory of the 29 coal miners who died in last week's explosion at the Upper Big Branch Mine in Montcoal, W. Va.

McDonnell called for a moment of silence to be held in conjunction with the moment of silence observance led by West Virginia Gov. Joe Manchin III (D).

"Last week's tragedy cost 29 West Virginians their lives. It shattered families and communities, and our thoughts and prayers go out to all those who have lost loved ones,'' McDonnell said in a statement. "In the aftermath of this devastating event, West Virginia Gov. Joe Manchin has led his state with courage and empathy. Now, he has called for a moment of silence tomorrow to honor the fallen miners. I ask all Virginians to join in this observance and to continue to look for ways by which we can help our neighbors as they go through this tragic time."

(Photo courtesy of Michaele White, governor's photographer)