SACRAMENTO, CA – On behalf of all Californians, Governor Brown and First Lady Anne Gust Brown honor Lance Cpl. Niall W. Cotisears, who bravely gave his life in service to our state and nation. The Governor and First Lady extend their deepest condolences to his family and friends at this difficult time.

In memorial, Governor Brown ordered that flags be flown at half-staff over the State Capitol today. Lance Cpl. Cotisears’ family will receive a letter of condolence from the Governor.

Lance Cpl. Niall W. Cotisears, 23, of Arlington, VA, died June 23, while conducting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Twentynine Palms, CA. Cotisears was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.