Arnold Schwarzenegger
California State Governor

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the deaths of Cpl. Anthony G. Mihalo, of Naperville, IL, and Lance Cpl. Juan Lopez-Castaneda, of Mesa, AZ:

“Maria and I were deeply saddened to learn of the deaths of Corporal Anthony Mihalo and Lance Corporal Juan Lopez-Castaneda. Both were true patriots and their commitment to liberty is an example of what makes our nation strong. Maria and I join all Californians in offering our condolences to Juan and Anthony’s family and friends during this difficult time.”

Mihalo, 23, and Lopez-Castaneda, 19, died August 14 while supporting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan. The Marines were assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, U.S. Marine Corps, Twentynine Palms, CA.

In honor of Corporal Mihalo and Lance Corporal Lopez-Castaneda, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.