Bitter Harvest

Governor Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Caliente Marine

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Cpl. Adam O. Zanutto of Caliente:

"Maria and I join all Californians in reaching out to the family of Cpl. Zanutto. Words cannot adequately express how grateful we are to this brave Marine for his courageous service. Our thoughts and prayers are with Adam's family during this difficult time. He will be deeply missed."

Zanutto, 26, died March 6 at National Naval Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, from wounds received as a result of an improvised explosive device in Al Anbar province, Iraq on Feb. 25. He was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Twentynine Palms, CA.

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


Governor Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Pico Rivera Soldier

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Master Sgt. Emigdio E. Elizarraras of Pico Rivera:

"Master Sgt. Elizarraras committed himself to the dangerous task of protecting our freedom. Maria and I send our condolences to Emigdio's loved ones during their time of mourning. His dedication to this country will not be forgotten."
Elizarraras, 37, died Feb. 28 from injuries sustained when an improvised explosive device detonated near his HMMWV during a reconnaissance mission in Tarin Kowt, Afghanistan. He was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group, Fort Bragg, NC.

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


Governor Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Twentynine Palms Marine

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Lance Cpl. John Thornton of Phoenix, AZ:

"Protecting this nation is a task that Lance Cpl. Thornton took on with courage and honor. Brave men and women who, like John, are willing to sacrifice their lives to preserve our freedom deserve our deepest gratitude. Maria and I send our thoughts and prayers to John's family and friends."

Thornton, 22, died Feb. 25 of wounds received as a result of an enemy mortar attack in Ar Ramadi, Iraq. He was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Twentynine Palms, CA. During Operation Iraqi Freedom, his unit was attached to 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force.

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


Governor Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Bakersfield Soldier

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Spc. Clay P. Farr of Bakersfield:

"Spc. Farr fell defending freedom. California has lost a brave and noble soldier. Maria and I join with all Californians in mourning the loss of this courageous soldier. Our prayers are with Clay's loved ones during this painful time. "

Farr, 21, died Feb. 26 from injuries sustained when an improvised explosive device detonated near his HMMWV during patrol operations in Baghdad, Iraq. He was assigned to the 1st Squadron, 71st Cavalry, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division of Fort Drum, NY.

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


Governor Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Twentynine Palms Marine

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Lance Cpl. Matthew A. Snyder of Finksburg, MD:

"Marines like Lance Cpl. Snyder put their lives on the line daily to protect our country. Maria and I wish to express our deepest sympathies to Matthew's family. His loss is a painful reminder of the high cost paid for our freedom."

Snyder, 20, died March 3 from a non-combat related vehicle accident in Al Anbar province, Iraq. He was assigned to Combat Service Support Group-1, 1st Marine Logistics Group, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Twentynine Palms, CA.

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