WASHINGTON — Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords has officially resigned from her position today to focus on her recovery, more than a year after she was shot in the head at point blank range.The House reportedly gave her a standing ovation during her departure.The Arizona congresswoman formally resigned after a series of tributes from her colleagues. As Giffords sat in the chamber’s front row, lawmakers praised her dignity, grace and perseverance. Her mother, Gloria, and husband, retired Navy Capt. Mark Kelly, watched from the gallery.Giffords stood in the well of the House as her close friend, Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, read her resignation letter. Other members of the Arizona delegation surrounded her. And Rep. Jeff Flake held her hand. An emotional Wasserman Schultz said Giffords would return one day. Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.