Arnold Schwarzenegger
California State Governor

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Pfc. Marcus A. Tynes, of Moreno Valley:

"Maria and I were deeply saddened to learn of the death of Private First Class Marcus Tynes. The men and women in our armed forces are heroes and Marcus will forever be remembered for his courageous service to our country. We send our thoughts and prayers to all of Marcus' loved ones as they deal with this tragic loss."

Tynes, 19, died November 22 in Zabul province, Afghanistan, of wounds sustained when enemy forces attacked his vehicle with an improvised explosive device. Tynes was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, U.S. Army, Fort Bragg, N.C.

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