Gov. Issues Statements On Deaths of Military Personnel

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GOVERNOR ISSUES STATEMENTS ON DEATHS OF MILITARY PERSONNEL

08/12/2008
Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Deaths of Camp Pendleton Marines
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the deaths of Cpl. Adam T. McKiski, of Cherry Valley, IL and Cpl. Stewart S. Trejo, of Whitefish, MT:

"Corporal Adam McKiski and Corporal Stewart Trejo are true patriots who fought proudly and bravely for their fellow citizens and for the ideals of this country. Californians will never forget their courage and sacrifice. Maria and I send our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of these brave men during this difficult time."
McKiski, 21, and Trejo, 25, died August 7, while supporting combat operations in Anbar province, Iraq. They were assigned to the 1st Maintenance Battalion, 1st Marine Logistics Group, I Marine Expeditionary Force, U.S. Marine Corps, Camp Pendleton, Calif.

In honor of Cpl. McKiski and Cpl. Trejo, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.

08/05/2008
Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Chatsworth Soldier
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Pvt. Jair De Jesus Garcia, of Chatsworth, CA:

"Maria and I are deeply saddened by the loss of Private Jair De Jesus Garcia. Jair De Jesus was a brave soldier who fought courageously in defense of our nation's freedom. His sacrifice, service and loyalty to our country will never be forgotten. We join all Californians in offering our thoughts and prayers to Jair De Jesus' family and friends during this difficult time."

Garcia, 29, died August 1 from wounds sustained when his vehicle encountered an improvised explosive device in Chowkay, Afghanistan. Garcia was assigned to the 6th Squadron, 4th Calvary Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, U.S. Army, Fort Hood, TX.

In honor of Pvt. Garcia, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.

08/05/2008
Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of American Canyon Soldier: Pfc. Jennifer L. Cole
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Pfc. Jennifer L. Cole, of American Canyon, CA:

"Private First Class Jennifer Cole fought with pride, honor and unyielding commitment to freedom and democracy. Her courage is an inspiration to all Californians and we will never forget her sacrifice. Maria and I send our condolences to Jennifer's family and friends."

Cole, 34, died Aug. 2 in Bayji, Iraq, of injuries suffered in a non-combat related incident. Cole was assigned to the 426th Support Battalion, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), U.S. Army, Fort Campbell, KY.

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

07/24/2008
Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Clearlake Marine
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Pfc. Ivan I. Wilson, of Clearlake, CA:

"I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Private First Class Ivan Wilson, who dedicated his life to protecting the liberty of his fellow citizens and Marines. Californians are forever indebted to Ivan's unwavering courage and service. Maria and I send our deepest condolences to Ivan's family and friends."

Wilson, 22, died July 21 while supporting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan. Wilson was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, U.S. Marine Corps, Twentynine Palms, CA.

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

07/18/2008
Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Tech. Sergeant Jackie Larsen
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Tech. Sgt. Jackie L. Larsen, of Tacoma, WA:

"I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Technical Sergeant Jackie Larsen. She fought proudly and her allegiance to our country and unrelenting commitment to protecting liberty will never be forgotten. Maria and I join all Californians in offering our prayers and deepest condolences to Jackie's family and friends."

Larsen, 37, died of natural causes July 17 at Balad Air Base, Iraq. Larsen was assigned to the 9th Reconnaissance Wing, U.S. Air Force, Beale Air Force Base, CA.

In honor of Tech. Sgt. Jackie L. Larsen, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.

07/17/2008
Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Camp Pendleton Marine
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Lance Cpl. Jeffery Stevenson, of Newton, NJ:

"Lance Corporal Stevenson was a courageous Marine who fought bravely to defend our nation's freedom. His sacrifice, commitment and loyalty to his fellow citizens serve as an example to all Californians that will not be forgotten. Maria and I extend our deepest sympathies to Jeffery's family and friends as they mourn this tremendous loss."

Stevenson, 20, died July 13 from a non-hostile incident in Al Anbar province, Iraq. Stevenson was assigned to the 7th Engineer Support Battalion, 1st Marine Logistics Group, I Marine Expeditionary Force, U.S. Marines, Camp Pendleton, CA.

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

07/16/2008
Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Long Beach Soldier
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Sgt. Israel Garcia, of Long Beach, CA:

"Sergeant Israel Garcia was a true patriot who sacrificed his life to protect the values and ideals that are held dear in this country. He fought with pride and courage and Californians will never forget his service. On behalf of all Californians, Maria and I extend our thoughts and prayers to Israel's family and friends during this difficult time."

Garcia, 24, died July 13 of wounds suffered when their outpost was attacked by small arms fire and rocket propelled grenades from enemy forces in Wanat, Afghanistan. Garcia was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment (Airborne), 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team, U.S. Army, Vicenza, Italy.

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

07/01/2008
Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Imperial Beach Soldier: Sgt. James M. Treber
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Sgt. James M. Treber, of Imperial Beach, CA:

"Sergeant James Treber was a courageous patriot who sacrificed his life to defend our nation's freedom. James' commitment to his fellow soldiers is an inspiration to all Americans and his service will always be remembered. Maria and I offer our prayers and condolences to James' family and friends as they mourn the loss of their loved one."

Treber, 24, died June 29 in Khosrow-E Sofla, Afghanistan, from injuries sustained when his vehicle rolled into a canal. This incident is under investigation. Treber was assigned to 1st Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne), U.S. Army, Fort Bragg, N.C.

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

06/27/2008
Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Camp Pendleton Marine: Staff Sgt. Christopher D. Strickland
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Staff Sgt. Christopher D. Strickland, of Labelle, FL:

"Staff Sergeant Christopher Strickland fought with pride, valor and an unwavering commitment to protecting the ideals that are the foundation of this country. Christopher honored America with his profound selflessness and integrity, and Californians are forever grateful for his outstanding service. Maria and I extend our deepest condolences to Christopher's family, friends and fellow soldiers at this difficult time."

Strickland, 25, died June 25, while supporting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan. Strickland was assigned to 1st Marine Logistics Group, I Marine Expeditionary Force, U.S. Marine Corps, Camp Pendleton, CA.

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

06/27/2008
Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of San Diego Soldier: Sgt. Alejandro A. Dominguez
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Sgt. Alejandro A. Dominguez, of San Diego, CA:

"Maria and I were deeply saddened to learn of the loss of Sergeant Alejandro Dominguez, an outstanding patriot who sacrificed his life for the cause of freedom. Alejandro's service, loyalty and courage are a testament to the extraordinary character of our men and women of our armed forces. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Alejandro's family and friends as they mourn the passing of this American hero."

Dominguez, 24, died June 25 in Mosul, Iraq, from wounds suffered when his vehicle encountered an improvised explosive device on June 24. Dominguez was assigned to the 1st Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, U.S. Army, Fort Hood, TX.

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

06/26/2008
Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Vacaville Soldier: Spc. Ryan Connolly
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Spc. Ryan J. Connolly, of Vacaville, CA:

"Specialist Ryan Connolly was a true patriot who served our country bravely. His commitment to freedom, his fellow soldiers and the defense of the United States will never be forgotten. Maria and I join all Californians in offering our prayers and condolences to Ryan's family during this difficult time."

Connolly, 24, died June 24 in Khogyani, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when his vehicle struck a suspected landmine. Connolly was assigned to the 173rd Special Troops Battalion, 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team, U.S. Army, Bamberg, Germany.

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

06/24/2008
Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Deaths of Two Twentynine Palms Marines
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the deaths of Capt. Eric Daniel Terhune, of Lexington, KY, Lance Cpl. Andrew Francis Whitacre, of Bryant, IN:

"I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Captain Eric Terhune and Lance Corporal Andrew Whitacre. Both served our country bravely and their commitment to protecting their fellow soldiers, citizens and the ideals of freedom will never be forgotten. Californians will always honor their service and their sacrifice. Maria and I send our prayers and deepest condolences to the family and friends of these American heroes."

Terhune, 34 and Whitacre, 21, died June 19 while conducting combat operations in Farah Province, Afghanistan. They were assigned to 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps, Twentynine Palms, CA.

In honor of Capt. Terhune and Lance Cpl. Whitacre, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.

06/23/2008
Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Twentynine Palms Marine
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Sgt. Matthew E. Mendoza, of San Antonio, TX:

"I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Sergeant Matthew Mendoza. He served his country with bravery, pride and an unrelenting commitment to protecting his fellow citizens. Californians are forever indebted to Matthew for his sacrifice. Maria and I send our deepest condolences to Matthew's family and friends as they mourn this tremendous loss."

Mendoza, 24, died June 20 while conducting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan. Mendoza was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps, Twentynine Palms, CA.

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

06/23/2008
Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Twentynine Palms Sailor: U.S. Navy Hospitalman Dustin Kelby Burnett
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of U. S. Navy Hospitalman Dustin Kelby Burnett, of Fort Mohave, AZ:

"Hospitalman Dustin Kelby Burnett was a true patriot who fought to preserve the freedom our country was built upon. His pride, courage and ultimate sacrifice will never be forgotten by the people of California. Maria and I send our thoughts and prayers to Dustin's family and friends during this difficult time."

Burnett, 19, died June 20 while conducting combat operations in Farah Province, Afghanistan. Burnett was assigned to First Marine Division Detachment, Twentynine Palms, CA.

In honor of Hospitalman Burnett, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.

06/19/2008
Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Hemet Sailor: Hospitalman Marc A. Retmier
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of U. S. Navy Hospitalman Marc A. Retmier, of Hemet, CA:

"We are forever indebted to Hospitalman Marc Retmier for the extraordinary sacrifice he made to defend America. As California honors the memory of this fallen patriot, we are inspired by Marc's courage, devotion and incredible selflessness. Maria and I join all Californians in sending our thoughts and prayers to Marc's family and friends as they mourn his loss."

Retmier, 19, died June 18 as a result of wounds suffered from an enemy rocket attack in northern Paktika province, Afghanistan. Retmier was assigned to Provincial Reconstruction Team Sharana in Afghanistan.

In honor of Hospitalman Retmier, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.

06/17/2008
Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Deaths of Four Twentynine Palms Marines
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the deaths of Sgt. Michael Toussiant-Hyle Washington of Tacoma, WA; Lance Cpl. Layton Bradly Crass of Richmond, IN; Pfc. Dawid Pietrek of Bensenville, IL; and Pfc. Michael Robert Patton of Fenton, MO:

"Maria and I were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of these four American heroes. They served the people of the United States with pride and courage and their commitment to defending our country and fellow citizens will never be forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of these true patriots during this difficult time."

Washington, 20, Crass, 22, Pietrek, 24 and Patton, 19 died June 14 while supporting combat operations in Farah Province, Afghanistan. They were assigned to 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps, Twentynine Palms, CA.

In honor of Sgt. Washington, Lance Cpl. Crass, Pfc. Pietrek and Pfc. Patton, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.

06/13/2008
Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Antioch Soldier
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Sgt. John D. Aragon of Antioch, CA:

"Sergeant John Aragon served with bravery and loyalty to his country and fellow soldiers. His devotion to service is an inspiration for all Americans and his sacrifice will not be forgotten. Maria and I offer our condolences to John's family and friends as they mourn the loss of their loved one."

Aragon, 22, died June 12 in Kadamiyah, Iraq, of wounds suffered when his vehicle encountered an improvised explosive device. Aragon was assigned to the 1st Squadron, 75th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), United States Army, Fort Campbell, KY.

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

06/06/2008
Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Escondido Soldier
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Sgt. Cody R. Legg, of Escondido, CA:

"Maria and I extend our sympathies to the family of Sergeant Cody Legg, who fought with pride, honor and an unrelenting commitment to democracy. Californians are forever indebted to his service and sacrifice. Our thoughts and prayers are with Cody's family and friends during this difficult time."

Legg, 23, died June 4 in Tikrit, Iraq, of wounds suffered in Sharqat, Iraq, when his unit was attacked by enemy forces using small arms fire and hand grenades. Legg was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry), U.S. Army, Fort Drum, NY.

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

06/02/2008
Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Los Angeles Soldier: Sgt. 1st Class David Nunez
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Sgt. 1st Class David Nunez, of Los Angeles, CA:

"I am deeply saddened by the passing of Sergeant First Class David Nunez, who fought with pride and honor to preserve the liberties of his fellow citizens. We will forever remember his service and sacrifice given in the name freedom. Maria and I send our thoughts and prayers to David's family and friends as they mourn this extraordinary loss."

Nunez, 27, died May 29 in Shewan, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when he encountered small arms fire while conducting combat operations. Nunez was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group, United States Army, Fort Bragg, NC.

In honor of Sgt. 1st Class Nunez, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.

05/29/2008
Governor Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of West Covina Soldier: Pfc. Chad M. Trimble
Governor Schwarzenegger today issued the following statement regarding the death of Pfc. Chad M. Trimble of West Covina, CA:

"Private First Class Trimble served with honor, integrity and unrelenting dedication to our country and his fellow soldiers. He was a true patriot and his selflessness will never be forgotten. Maria and I join all Californians in offering our condolences to Chad's loved ones during this difficult time."

Trimble, 29, died May 28, near Gardez, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when his vehicle encountered an improvised explosive device. Trimble was assigned to the 1st Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), United States Army, Fort Campbell, KY.

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

05/28/2008
Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Santa Rosa Soldier: Spc. Christopher Gathercole
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Spc. Christopher Gathercole, of Santa Rosa, CA:

“Maria and I are deeply saddened to learn of the loss of Specialist Christopher Gathercole. He served with courage, determination and patriotism and Californians will forever remember his sacrifice. Our thoughts and prayers are with Christopher’s family, friends and fellow soldiers during this difficult time. ”

Gathercole, 21, died May 26 in Ghazni, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered from small arms fire during combat operations. Gathercole was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, United States Army, Fort Lewis, WA.

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

05/27/2008
Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Merced Soldier: Sgt. Frank J. Gasper
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Sgt. Frank J. Gasper of Merced, CA:

“Sergeant Frank Gasper’s bravery is a shining example of the courage and determination that makes our nation strong. His dedication to preserving our nation’s freedom serves as inspiration to all Californians and his sacrifice will not be forgotten. Maria and I extend our prayers to Frank’s family and friends as they mourn this tremendous loss. ”

Gasper, 25, died May 25 in Najaf, Iraq, of wounds suffered when his vehicle encountered an improvised explosive device. Gasper was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 10th Special Forces Group, United States Army, Fort Carson, CO.

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

05/12/2008
Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Temecula Soldier
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Spc. Mary J. Jaenichen, of Temecula, CA:

"Maria and I were deeply saddened to learn of the loss of Specialist Mary Jaenichen. She devoted her life to serving our country with courage, pride and honor. Our thoughts and prayers are with Mary's family and friends as they mourn the passing of this brave and dedicated patriot."

Jaenichen, 20, died May 9 of a non-combat related injury in Iskandariyah, Iraq. Jaenichen was assigned to the Brigade Troops Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, United States Army, Fort Stewart, GA.

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

05/12/2008
Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of San Jacinto Soldier
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Pfc. Aaron J. Ward, of San Jacinto, CA:

"Private First Class Aaron Ward made the ultimate sacrifice to defend America. Maria and I join the people of California in honoring Aaron for his bravery, selflessness and exceptional resolve in the fight for freedom. Our hearts go out to Aaron's family and fellow soldiers during this difficult time--we will continue to pray for their solace."

Ward, 19, died May 6 in Al Anbar, Iraq, of wounds suffered when his unit came under small arms fire while conducting cordon and search operations. Ward was assigned to the 170th Military Police Company, 504th Military Police Battalion, 42nd Military Police Brigade, United States Army, Fort Lewis, WA.

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

05/08/2008
Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Four Camp Pendleton Marines
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the deaths of Lance Cpl. Casey L. Casanova of McComb, MS; Cpl. Miguel A. Guzman of Norwalk, CA; Lance Cpl. James F. Kimple of Carroll, OH; and Sgt. Glen E. Martinez of Boulder, CO:

"The sacrifices made by these four extraordinary patriots will be remembered forever by the people of California. They served our country with honor, loyalty and an unwavering commitment to the cause of liberty for all. Maria and I extend our deepest condolences to the families and friends of these brave American heroes during this time of mourning."

Casanova, 22, Guzman, 21, Kimple, 21, and Martinez, 31, died May 2 supporting combat operations in Al Anbar province, Iraq. They were assigned to the Combat Logistics Battalion 1, Combat Logistics Regiment 1, 1st Marine Logistics Group, I Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps, Camp Pendleton, CA.

In honor of Lance Cpl. Casanova, Cpl. Guzman, Lance Cpl. Kimple and Sgt. Martinez, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.

05/02/2008
Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Bakersfield Soldier: Staff Sgt. Bryan E. Bolander
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Staff Sgt. Bryan E. Bolander, of Bakersfield, CA:

"My heart goes out to Staff Sergeant Bryan Bolander's family and friends as they mourn the loss of this brave Californian. Bryan's dedication to his country and fellow citizens will never be forgotten by the people of our state. We are deeply grateful for his courage and service. Maria and I extend our deepest sympathies to Bryan's loved ones during this difficult time."

Bolander, 26, died April 29 in Baghdad, Iraq, from wounds suffered when his vehicle struck an improvised explosive device. Bolander was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), United States Army, Fort Campbell, KY.

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

05/01/2008
Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Camp Pendleton Marine: Sgt. Merlin German
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Sgt. Merlin German, of Manhattan, NY:

"We are forever indebted to Sergeant Merlin German, a true patriot who gave his life to safeguard democracy. Merlin's courage and unfailing loyalty serve as an inspiration to Americans everywhere. Maria and I join the people of California in offering our deepest condolences to Merlin's family, friends and fellow Marines during this time of mourning."

German, 22, died April 11 at Brooke Army Medical Center, San Antonio, TX, from wounds he suffered while conducting combat operations in Al Anbar province, Iraq, on February 22, 2005. German was assigned to the 5th Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps, Camp Pendleton, CA, while deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

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

05/01/2008
Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Ramona Soldier: Sgt. 1st Class David L. McDowell
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Sgt. 1st Class David L. McDowell, of Ramona, CA:

"Sergeant First Class David McDowell's sacrifice is an example of the extraordinary determination and courage that makes our nation so strong. We are forever grateful to David for his selflessness and steadfast devotion to the defense of America. Maria and I extend our deepest condolences to David's family, friends and fellow soldiers as they mourn his loss."

McDowell, 30, died April 29 in Bastion, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked using small arms fire. McDowell was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, United States Army, Fort Lewis, WA.

In honor of Sgt. 1st Class McDowell, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.

05/01/2008
Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Culver City Soldier: Pfc. William T. Dix
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Pfc. William T. Dix, of Culver City, CA:

"Maria and I were deeply saddened to learn of the loss of Private First Class William Dix. His courage, selflessness and unwavering commitment to the cause of liberty will always be cherished by the people of California. We send our thoughts and prayers to William's family, friends and fellow soldiers during this difficult time."

Dix, 32, died April 27 at Camp Buehring, Kuwait, as a result of injuries suffered in a non-combat related incident. Dix was assigned to the 14th Engineer Battalion, 555th Engineer Brigade, I Corps, United States Army, Fort Lewis, WA.

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

04/30/2008
Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Lafayette Airman: Senior Airman Jonathan Yelner
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Senior Airman Jonathan A. V. Yelner, of Lafayette, CA:

"Senior Airman Jonathan Yelner answered the call to defend the United States with bravery, integrity and a relentless devotion to the ideals and freedoms that we all hold dear. As the people of California honor Jonathan's service to our country, we are reminded of the extraordinary sacrifices made to protect our way of life. Maria and I offer our deepest condolences to Jonathan's family and friends as they mourn his loss."

Yelner, 24, died April 29 near Bagram, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when his vehicle encountered an improvised explosive device. Yelner was assigned to the 28th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, United States Air Force, Ellsworth Air Force Base, SD.

In honor of Senior Airman Yelner, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.

04/25/2008
Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Fort Irwin Soldier: Sgt. Guadalupe Cervantes Ramirez
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Sgt. Guadalupe Cervantes Ramirez, of Fort Irwin, CA:

"Sergeant Guadalupe Cervantes Ramirez sacrificed his life to protect the values and freedoms which define our nation and its people. His devotion, loyalty and unfailing courage in the face of danger serve as an inspiration to all Americans. Maria and I extend our deepest condolences to Guadalupe's family and friends as they mourn the loss of this brave Californian."

Ramirez, 26, died April 23 at Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, of injuries suffered in a vehicle incident. Ramirez was assigned to the 2nd Transportation Company (Heavy Equipment Transport), Echelons Above Brigade Support Battalion, National Training Center Support Brigade, United States Army, Fort Irwin, CA.

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

04/23/2008
Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Bakersfield Sailor: Petty Officer 1st Class Cherie L. Morton
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Petty Officer 1st Class Cherie L. Morton, of Bakersfield, CA:

"Maria and I join all Californians in paying tribute to the life of Petty Officer Cherie Morton, an outstanding patriot who made the ultimate sacrifice to defend America. We are forever grateful to Cherie for her courage, loyalty and steadfast commitment to the cause of liberty for all people. Our thoughts and prayers are with Cherie's family, friends and fellow sailors as they honor the memory of this fallen hero."

Morton, 40, died April 20 in Galali, Muharraq, Bahrain. The cause of death is under investigation. Morton was assigned to the Naval Security Force, Naval Support Activity, United States Navy, Bahrain.

In honor of Petty Officer Morton, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.