War Dead

Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Temecula Soldier

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Capt. Brian S. Freeman of Temecula, CA:

"Capt. Freeman fulfilled a tremendous duty in serving and protecting our country here and abroad. Maria and I offer our sympathies to Brian's family and friends. His loss is a painful reminder of the sacrifices our servicemen and women make for our freedoms."

Freeman, 31, died Jan. 20 as a result of wounds received when his meeting area came under attack by mortar and small arms fire in Karbala, Iraq. He was assigned to the 412th Civil Affairs Battalion, Whitehall, OH.

In honor of Capt. Freeman, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.



Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Hayward Soldier

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Pvc. Michael C. Balsley of Hayward, CA:

"Pvc. Balsley's dedication and brave obedience to civic duty has protected the lives of his fellow Americans. Maria and I join with all Californians in offering our condolences to Michael's family, friends and fellow soldiers as they mourn his loss. His honorable sacrifice will not be forgotten."

Balsley, 23, died Jan. 25 as a result of injuries sustained when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle during combat operations in Baghdad, Iraq. He was assigned to the 3rd Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, Fort Carson, CO.

In honor of Pvc. Balsley, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.


Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Vista Soldier

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Spc. Jeffrey D. Bisson of Vista, CA:

"Spc. Bisson made the ultimate sacrifice in serving our country and valiantly preserved the freedoms that we treasure. Maria and I offer our sincere condolences to Jeffrey's loved ones. We will keep them in our thoughts and prayers as they endure this painful loss."

Bisson, 22, died Jan. 20 as a result of injuries sustained when an improvised explosive device detonated near his Humvee in Karma, Iraq. He was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 509th Infantry (Airborne), 4th Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Fort Richardson, AK.

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

Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Two Camp Pendleton Marines

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the deaths of Lance Cpl. Andrew G. Matus of Chetek, WI and Lance Cpl. Emilian D. Sanchez of Santa Ana Pueblo, NM:

"The men and women of our nation's armed forces bravely defend us with unsurpassed honor and courage. Lance Cpl. Matus and Lance Cpl. Sanchez willingly risked their lives to protect us and our freedoms. Maria and I offer our condolences to Andrew's family and Emilian's family and we will pray for their comfort during this difficult time."

Matus, 19, and Sanchez, 20, died Jan. 21 as a result of wounds received while conducting combat operations in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. They were assigned to Battalion Landing Team, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, CA.

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



Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Sacramento National Guard Member

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Chief Warrant Officer 4 Art Laguna of Sacramento, CA:

"California has suffered a great loss with the death of Chief Warrant Officer Laguna. Art's tremendous courage and profound allegiance to the California National Guard warrants the appreciation and gratitude of all Californians. Maria and I offer our deepest sympathies and our prayers are with his family as they endure this painful loss."

Laguna, 52, died Jan. 23 as a result of injuries sustained when his helicopter came under attack during routine protection detail in Baghdad, Iraq. He was working for a civilian contractor in Iraq.

In honor of Chief Warrant Officer Laguna, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.