Five More

Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Los Angeles Soldier

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Sgt. Robert T. Ayres III, of Los Angeles, CA:

"Sergeant Robert Ayres will be remembered as an example of valor and commitment to duty. Maria and I mourn the loss of this courageous soldier and we send our prayers to his family and loved ones. Robert's sacrifice is a somber reminder of the dangers inherent in protecting our country."

Ayres, 23, died Sept. 29 as a result of wounds sustained when insurgents attacked his unit using small arms fire in Baghdad, Iraq. Ayres was assigned to the 3rd Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, United States Army, Vilseck, Germany.

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


Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Cameron Park Soldier

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Pfc. Mathew D. Taylor, of Cameron Park, CA:

"Private First Class Mathew Taylor proudly stood beside his fellow soldiers defending our country overseas. He embodies the incredible spirit of commitment and courage displayed every day by the members of our armed forces. Maria and I send our heartfelt sympathies and prayers to Mathew's family, friends and loved ones."

Taylor , 21, died Sept. 26 in San Antonio of wounds sustained when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle July 23 in Sarobi District , Afghanistan . Taylor was assigned to the 1st Battalion (Airborne), 503rd Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team, United States Army, Vicenza , Italy .

In honor of Pfc. Taylor, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.


Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of San Diego Soldier

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Cpl. Anthony K. Bento, of San Diego , CA :

"Answering the highest call of duty, Corporal Anthony Bento gave his life fighting for freedom. The allegiance and fidelity of Anthony's service warrants the highest appreciation of all Californians. Maria and I wish to send our sympathies to his family, friends and fellow soldiers as they mourn his loss."

Bento, 23, died Sept. 24 as a result of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit using small arms fire in Bayji , Iraq . Bento was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, United States Army, Fort Bragg , NC .

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


Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Novato Soldier

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Spc. Nicholas P. Olson, of Novato, CA:

"Maria and I extend our profound sympathy to the family and friends of Specialist Nicholas Olson, who gave his life with honor to protect our nation and our values. Nicholas' bravery and sacrifice will always be remembered. We will pray for the comfort of his family during this painful time."

Olson, 22, died Sept. 18 as a result of wounds sustained when an improvised explosive device detonated near his unit during combat operations in Muqdadiyah, Iraq. Olson was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team), United States Army, Fort Lewis, WA.

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


Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Redding Marine

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Cpl. Travis M. Woods, of Redding, CA:

"Maria and I join all Californians in mourning the tremendous loss of Corporal Travis Woods. A brave and committed Marine, Travis will be forever honored for his willingness to answer the call of duty as a member of our armed forces. We send our prayers and sincere condolences to his family, fellow Marines and the community of Redding during this difficult time."

Woods, 21, died Sept. 9 as a result of wounds suffered while conducting combat operations in Northern Helmand province, Afghanistan. Woods 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 Cpl. Woods, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.