Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statements On Deaths...

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NEWS FROM THE CALIFORNIA GOVERNOR’S OFFICE

The following Press Releases were issued by Governor Schwarzenegger on the dates indicated.

September 28, 2007
 
Governor Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of San Diego Soldier: Cpl. Anthony K. Bento
 
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Cpl. Anthony K. Bento, of San Diego, CA:
 
“Answering the highest call of duty, Corporal Anthony Bento gave his life fighting for freedom. The allegiance and fidelity of Anthony’s service warrants the highest appreciation of all Californians. Maria and I wish to send our sympathies to his family, friends and fellow soldiers as they mourn his loss.” 
 
Bento, 23, died Sept. 24 as a result of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit using small arms fire in Bayji, Iraq. Bento was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, United States Army, Fort Bragg, NC.

In honor of Cpl. Bento, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff. 
 

October 2, 2007
 
Governor Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Cameron Park Soldier: Pfc. Mathew D. Taylor
 
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Pfc. Mathew D. Taylor, of Cameron Park, CA:

“Private First Class Mathew Taylor proudly stood beside his fellow soldiers defending our country overseas. He embodies the incredible spirit of commitment and courage displayed every day by the members of our armed forces. Maria and I send our heartfelt sympathies and prayers to Mathew’s family, friends and loved ones.”

Taylor, 21, died Sept. 26 in San Antonio of wounds sustained when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle July 23 in Sarobi District, Afghanistan. Taylor was assigned to the 1st Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team, United States Army, Vicenza, Italy.

In honor of Pfc. Taylor, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.



October 3, 2007
 
Governor Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Los Angeles Soldier: Sgt. Robert T. Ayres III
 
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Sgt. Robert T. Ayres III, of Los Angeles, CA:

“Sergeant Robert Ayres will be remembered as an example of valor and commitment to duty. Maria and I mourn the loss of this courageous soldier and we send our prayers to his family and loved ones. Robert’s sacrifice is a somber reminder of the dangers inherent in protecting our country.”

Ayres, 23, died Sept. 29 as a result of wounds sustained when insurgents attacked his unit using small arms fire in Baghdad, Iraq. Ayres was assigned to the 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, United States Army, Vilseck, Germany.

In honor of Sgt. Ayres, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.
 

October 10, 2007
 
Governor Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Hayward Soldier: Spc. Avealalo Milo
 
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Spc. Avealalo Milo, of Hayward, CA:

“In valiant service to our country and his fellow Americans, Specialist Avealalo Milo made the ultimate sacrifice protecting our nation abroad. Maria and I express our deepest sympathies to Avealalo’s family and loved ones. His loyalty and courage will forever be cherished by all who knew him.”

Milo, 23, died Oct. 4 as a result of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit using small arms fire in Baghdad, Iraq. Milo was assigned to the 2nd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, United States Army, Vilseck, Germany.

In honor of Spc. Milo, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.



October 11, 2007
 
Governor Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Camp Pendleton Marine: Lance Cpl. Jeremy W. Burris
 
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Lance Cpl. Jeremy W. Burris, of Tacoma, WA:

“My heart goes out to Lance Corporal Jeremy Burris’ family, friends and community at this very difficult time. Jeremy’s bravery and commitment to our country is an inspiration to all Americans and we honor him for this ultimate sacrifice. Maria and I hold the Burris family in our thoughts and prayers.”

Burris, 22, died Oct. 8 while conducting combat operations in Al Anbar province, Iraq. Burris was assigned to 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps, Camp Pendleton, CA.

In honor of Lance Cpl. Burris, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.



October 12, 2007
 
Governor Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Oxnard Soldier: Cpl. Gilberto A. Meza
 
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Cpl. Gilberto A. Meza, of Oxnard, CA:

“Corporal Gilberto Meza’s allegiance to freedom and his dedication to protecting the ideals of our country warrant the highest appreciation of all Californians. Maria and I want to express our sincere condolences to Gilberto’s family and friends as they endure the terrible loss of this courageous soldier. We will continue to pray for them.”

Meza, 21, died Oct. 6 as a result of wounds sustained when an improvised explosive device detonated near his unit in Baghdad, Iraq. Meza was assigned to the 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, United States Army, Vilseck, Germany.

In honor of Cpl. Meza, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.



October 17, 2007
 
Governor Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Sacramento Soldier: Spc. Frank L. Cady III
 
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Spc. Frank L. Cady III, of Sacramento, CA:

“Our state has lost a dedicated soldier with the death of Specialist Frank Cady. Maria and I want Frank’s family to know that we are eternally grateful to him for protecting the safety of our citizens as a member of the United States Army. We join all Californians in extending our prayers and condolences to his loved ones.”

Cady, 20, died Oct. 10 as a result of injuries sustained during a vehicle roll-over in Baghdad, Iraq. Cady was assigned to the 4th Special Troops Battalion, 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, United States Army, Fort Riley, KS. The circumstances surrounding the incident are under investigation.

In honor of Spc. Cady, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.
 

October 19, 2007
 
Governor Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Port Hueneme Soldier: Spc. Vincent A. Madero
 
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Spc. Vincent A. Madero, of Port Hueneme, CA:

“Maria and I join the community of Port Hueneme in mourning the tragic loss of Specialist Vincent Madero. Serving as a member of our nation’s armed forces requires courage and bravery, qualities which Vincent embodied. Our prayers are with his family and friends during this painful time; he will be dearly missed by all who knew him.”

Madero, 22, died Oct. 17 as a result of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near his HMMWV in Balad, Iraq. Madero was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 82nd Field Artillery Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, United States Army, Fort Hood, TX.

In honor of Spc. Madero, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.
 

October 24, 2007
 
Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Lone Pine Soldier: Spc. Wayne M. Geiger
 
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Spc. Wayne M. Geiger, of Lone Pine, CA:

“Specialist Wayne Geiger made the ultimate sacrifice while bravely defending our country overseas. Maria and I wish to convey our deepest condolences and continued prayers to Wayne’s family, friends and fellow soldiers for their loss. We are forever grateful for his dedication as a member of our nation’s armed forces.”

Geiger, 23, died Oct. 18 as a result of wounds sustained when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle in Baghdad, Iraq. Geiger was assigned to the 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, United States Army, Vilseck, Germany.

In honor of Spc. Geiger, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.



October 24, 2007
 
Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Santee Marine: Cpl. Erik T. Garoutte
 
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Cpl. Erik T. Garoutte, of Santee, CA:

“Words cannot adequately express how grateful we are to Corporal Erik Garoutte for his unwavering commitment as a member of the United States Marine Corps. Maria and I send our deepest sympathies and continued prayers to his family and friends as they mourn the tremendous loss of their loved one. Erik’s death is a great loss for California and our nation.”

Garoutte, 22, died Oct. 19 in Baghdad, Iraq. Garoutte was assigned to 1st Fleet Anti-terrorism Security Team Company, Marine Corps Security Force Battalion, II Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps, Norfolk, VA.

In honor of Cpl. Garoutte, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.



October 30, 2007
 
Governor Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Los Angeles Soldier: Staff Sgt. Joseph F. Curreri
 
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Staff Sgt. Joseph F. Curreri, of Los Angeles, CA:

“With deep sadness, Maria and I join all Californians in mourning the loss of Staff Sergeant Joseph Curreri. Joseph displayed tremendous courage and commitment undertaking the duty of serving in our nation’s military. We send our sincere condolences and prayers to his family, friends and fellow soldiers as they grieve the loss of their loved one.”

Curreri, 27, died Oct. 27 as a result of injuries sustained in a non-combat related incident in Siet, Lake Jolo Island, Philippines. Curreri was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne), United States Army, Fort Lewis, WA.

In honor of Staff Sgt. Curreri, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.
 

November 5, 2007
 
Governor Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Travis Air Force Base Staff Sergeant: Staff Sgt. David A. Wieger
 
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Staff Sgt. David A. Wieger, of North Huntingdon, PA:

“Staff Sergeant David Wieger was a dedicated member of the United States Air Force who committed himself to defending freedom abroad. Maria and I want David’s family and friends to know that we are forever grateful for his service to our nation and our continued prayers are with them during this painful time. His legacy will be cherished by all who knew him.”

Wieger, 28, died Nov. 1 as a result of wounds suffered from an improvised explosive device near Balad Air Base, Iraq. Wieger was assigned as a special agent to the Air Force Office of Special Investigations, Detachment 303, United States Air Force, Travis Air Force Base, CA.

In honor of Staff Sgt. Wieger, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.
 

November 14, 2007
 
Governor Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Bridgeport Marine: Sgt. Phillip A. Bocks
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Sgt. Phillip A. Bocks, of Troy, MI:
“Sergeant Phillip Bocks honorably served our nation with bravery and selflessness while preserving freedom and democracy for his fellow citizens. Maria and I send our deepest condolences and continued prayers to Phillip’s family, friends and fellow Marines for their loss. We are forever grateful for his dedication as a member of our nation’s armed forces.”

Bocks, 28, died Nov. 9 while conducting combat operations in Aranus, Afghanistan. Bocks was assigned to the Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center, United States Marine Corps, Bridgeport, CA.
In honor of Sgt. Bocks, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff. 

November 14, 2007
 
Governor Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Torrance Soldier: 1st Lt. Matthew C. Ferrara
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of 1st Lt. Matthew C. Ferrara, of Torrance, CA:
“First Lieutenant Matthew Ferrara made the ultimate sacrifice while protecting our nation abroad.  Matthew’s tremendous courage and bravery will always be remembered. Maria and I pray for the comfort of his family, friends and fellow soldiers during this painful time.”
Ferrara, 24, died Nov. 9 of wounds sustained when his patrol was attacked by direct fire from enemy forces in Aranus, Afghanistan. Ferrara was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 503rd Airborne Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team, United States Army, Vicenza, Italy.
In honor of 1st Lt. Ferrara, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff. 

November 14, 2007
 
Governor Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Torrance Soldier: Spc. Lester G. Roque
 

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Spc. Lester G. Roque, of Torrance, CA:
“Words cannot adequately convey our sincere appreciation for Specialist Roque’s service. Lester’s heroic sacrifice is an inspiration to all Californians. Maria and I extend our deepest condolences to his family during their time of mourning.”

Roque, 23, died Nov. 10 as a result of wounds sustained when his patrol was attacked by direct fire from enemy forces in Aranus, Afghanistan. Roque was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 503rd Airborne Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team, United States Army, Vicenza, Italy.

 

In honor of Spc. Roque, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff. 
 

November 14, 2007
 
Governor Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Walnut Creek Soldier: Spc. Sean K.A. Langevin

 

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Spc. Sean K.A. Langevin, of Walnut Creek, CA:

 

“Specialist Langevin committed himself to protecting our country. Maria and I extend our heartfelt condolences to Sean’s family, friends and fellow soldiers who served courageously beside him. His honorable sacrifice will not be forgotten.”

 

Langevin, 23, died Nov. 9 as a result of wounds sustained when his patrol was attacked by direct fire from enemy forces in Aranus, Afghanistan. Langevin was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 503rd Airborne Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team, United States Army, Vicenza, Italy.

                                                      

In honor of Spc. Langevin, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.
 

November 15, 2007
 
Governor Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Eureka Soldier: Cpl. Peter W. Schmidt
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Cpl. Peter W. Schmidt, of Eureka, CA:
“Maria and I join all Californians in mourning the loss of Corporal Peter Schmidt.  Peter joins a proud legacy of heroes who fought for their country and gave their lives to protect their fellow Americans. Our prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time.”

Schmidt, 30, died Nov. 13 of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated during dismounted combat operations in Mukhisa, Iraq. Schmidt was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 4th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, United States Army, Fort Lewis, WA.
In honor of Cpl. Schmidt, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff. 

November 20, 2007
 
Governor Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Riverside Air Force Staff Sergeant: Staff Sgt. Alejandro Ayala
 

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Staff Sgt. Alejandro Ayala, of Riverside, CA:

 

"Maria and I are terribly saddened by the loss of Staff Sergeant Alejandro Ayala. He served our country with courage and honor, characteristics that define the members of our nation's brave armed forces. We extend our continued prayers to Alejandro's family and friends as they mourn a cherished loved one."

 

Ayala, 26, died Nov. 18 of injuries sustained as a result of a vehicle accident in Kuwait. Ayala was assigned to the 90th Logistics Readiness Squadron, United States Air Force, F.E. Warren Air Force Base, WY. The cause of the accident is under investigation.

 

In honor of Staff Sgt. Ayala, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff. 
 


California Department of Veterans Affairs

 

Veterans News

 
Contact:  J.P. Tremblay
Jerry Jones
Jaime Arteaga
Legislation and Public Affairs
916-653-2192
Fax 916-653-2611
November 26, 2007