PRESIDENT OBAMA and Vice President Biden visited the survivors and the families of the victims. “Our hearts are broken, too,” said Obama, “and we stand with you.” He praised the efforts of emergency personnel and those who helped in the aftermath of the attack. He and Biden lay wreaths at a memorial for the victims. It is highly unusual for a President and Vice President to both attend an event such as this, according to White House protocol. Obama described the attack as terrorism and a crime of hate against the gay community. The White House flag flew at half-mast.