Three Lost

Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Crestline Soldier

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Spc. Eric M. Holke, of Crestline, CA:

"The loss of Specialist Eric Holke weighs heavily on the hearts of all Californians. Eric risked his life to safeguard the lives of all Americans and our country will be forever indebted to him for his sacrifice. Maria and I extend our thoughts and prayers to his family and friends in their time of grief."

Holke, 31, died July 15 as a result of injuries sustained from a vehicle rollover accident near the city of Tallil, Iraq. Holke was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 160th Infantry, California Army National Guard, Fullerton, CA.

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


Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Twentynine Palms Marine

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Lance Cpl. Angel R. Ramirez of Brooklyn , NY :

"Today, we honor Lance Corporal Angel Ramirez who gave his life in the service of his country and freedom. As a member of the armed forces, Angel fulfilled a tremendous responsibility to our nation's citizens. Maria and I send out heartfelt sympathies and prayers to the family and friends of this brave Marine in their time of grief."

Ramirez, 28, died February 21 at Marine Air Ground Combat Center , Twentynine Palms, CA, after being medically evacuated following a non-hostile incident in Al Qaim, Iraq , on December 21, 2006. Ramirez was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps, Twentynine Palms, CA.

The announcement surrounding the death of this Marine was delayed by the United States Department of Defense due to an administrative adjustment to the Marine's original death classification.

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


Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Camp Pendleton Marine

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Lance Cpl. Steven A. Stacy, of Coos Bay , OR :

"Lance Corporal Steven Stacy's noble pledge to our nation was unwavering. His valiant dedication to the fight for freedom and the preservation of democracy will never be forgotten. Maria and I offer our sincere condolences to the family and friends of this brave Marine."

Stacy, 23, died July 5 as a result of wounds suffered while conducting combat operations in Al Anbar province, Iraq . Stacy was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps, Camp Pendleton , CA .

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