Sargeants Montes and Howard and Corporal Benson

Governor Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Alameda Soldier

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Sgt. 1st Class Merideth L. Howard of Alameda:

"Maria and I are saddened to hear the news of Sgt. 1st Class Howard's death. Merideth braved the dangers of combat to protect our country ultimately giving her life in service. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family during this painful time."

Howard, 52, died Sept. 8 as a result of injuries sustained when a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device detonated near her HMMWV in Kabul, Afghanistan. She was assigned to the Army Reserve's 405th Civil Affairs Battalion, Fort Bragg, NC.

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


Governor Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of El Centro Soldier

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Sgt. Luis A. Montes of El Centro:

"The men and women of our nation's armed forces like Sgt. Montes put their lives on the line everyday to protect our country. Maria and I offer our sincere condolences to Luis' loved ones. His courageous commitment to our country will not be forgotten."

Montes, 22, died Sept. 7 at Brooke Army Medical Center, San Antonio, TX, of injuries sustained on Sept. 1 when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle during combat operations in Abu Ghraib, Iraq. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 22nd Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Hood, TX.

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


Governor Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Camp Pendleton Marine

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Cpl. Johnathan L. Benson of North Branch, MN:

"Today, we honor a Marine who courageously walked in harms way and risked his life for his fellow Americans. At this incredibly difficult time, Maria and I extend our heartfelt sympathies to Johnathan's family and friends. His loss is a painful reminder of the important work the members of our military do at home and abroad."

Benson, 21, died Sept. 9 as a result of wounds received on June 17 while conducting combat operations in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, CA.

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