Death Roll

Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of San Marcos Soldier

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Pfc. Ivan E. Merlo, of San Marcos , CA :

“Maria and I are forever grateful to those who make the commitment to defend America in our nation’s armed forces. Private First Class Ivan Merlo accepted this valiant duty with courage and bravery. During this difficult time, our continued prayers are with Ivan’s family, friends and fellow soldiers.”

Merlo , 19, died Jan. 8 as a result of wounds sustained during combat operations in Samarra , Iraq . Merlo was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 327th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), United States Army, Fort Campbell , KY. The incident is under investigation.

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

Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Hesperia Soldier

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Sgt. James K. Healy, of Hesperia , CA :

“Maria and I stand with all Californians in honoring Sergeant James Healy for his service in the United States Army. James will be remembered as a protector of freedom and a patriot of our country. Maria and I are deeply saddened by this loss and we wish to extend our thoughts and prayers to his family.”

Healy, 25, died Jan. 7 at Jalalabad Airfield , Afghanistan as a result of wounds suffered when his vehicle struck an improvised explosive device in Laghar Juy , Afghanistan . Healy was assigned to the 703rd Explosive Ordnance Detachment, United States Army, Fort Knox , KY.

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

Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Bakersfield Soldier

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Sgt. Benjamin B. Portell, of Bakersfield , CA :

"Standing with his fellow soldiers, Sergeant Benjamin Portell proudly defended our country overseas. Maria and I extend our sympathies and prayers to his family and friends in this time of mourning. All Californians owe Benjamin a debt of gratitude for his courageous service to our nation."

Portell, 27, died Dec. 26 as a result of wounds suffered from small arms fire during dismounted combat operations in Mosul , Iraq . Portell was assigned to the 3rd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, III Corps, United States Army, Fort Hood , TX .
In honor of Sgt. Portell, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.

Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Sanger Airman
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Senior Airman Nicholas D. Eischen, of Sanger , CA :

"As a member of our nation's armed forces, Senior Airman Nicholas Eischen set a courageous example for all Californians. Maria and I are deeply saddened by his loss and we will keep his family and friends in our thoughts and prayers. Nicholas' noble character will be deeply missed by all who knew him."

Eischen, 24, died Dec. 24 in a non-combat related incident in Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan . Eischen was assigned to the 60th Medical Operations Squadron, United States Air Force, Travis Air Force Base, CA.

In honor of Senior Airman Eischen, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.

Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Salinas Soldier
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Pfc. George J. Howell, of Salinas , CA :

"Private First Class George Howell fulfilled a valiant duty to our country, serving in the United States Army. George will be fondly remembered for his dedication to protecting freedom overseas. Maria and I will continue to pray for the comfort of his family, friends and fellow soldiers, who are mourning this tragic loss."

Howell, 24, died Dec. 21 as a result of wounds suffered when his vehicle was attacked by an improvised explosive device in Riyadh , Iraq . Howell was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 10th Infantry Division (Light Infantry), United States Army, Fort Drum , NY .

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