Corporals Baucus and Higgins Remembered

Governor Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Four Twentynine Palms Marines

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the deaths of Cpl. Phillip Baucus of Wolf Creek, MT, Lance Cpl. Anthony Butterfield of Clovis, Pfc. Jason Hanson of Forks, WA and Sgt. Christian Williams of Winter Haven, FL:

"By courageously putting themselves in harm's way to defend freedom abroad, these four Marines exemplified the selflessness that guides our men and women in uniform. Our thoughts and prayers go out to their loved ones."

Baucus, 28, Butterfield, 19, Hanson, 21 and Williams, 27, died July 29 while conducting combat operations in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. They were assigned to 3rd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Twentynine Palms, CA.

In honor of Cpl. Baucus, Lance Cpl. Butterfield, Pfc. Hanson and Sgt. Williams, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.


Governor Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Camp Pendleton Marine: Lance Cpl. James W. Higgins

Governor Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Lance Cpl. James W. Higgins of Frederick, MD:

"Maria and I extend our heartfelt sympathy to the family and friends of Lance Cpl. Higgins. We are indebted when someone makes the conscious decision to risk sacrificing themselves for our country and our freedoms. James and his family have our respect and gratitude."

Higgins, 22, died July 27 from wounds received while conducting combat operations in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, CA.

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