Arnold Schwarzenegger
California State Governor

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today issued the following statement regarding the death of Sgt. Ronald A. Rodriguez of Falls Church, VA:

“Sergeant Ronald Rodriguez was one of our country’s bravest individuals. He faced danger every day to preserve our freedoms and, in the end, he made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Maria and I, on behalf of all Californians, extend our thoughts and prayers to Ronald’s family, friends and fellow Marines as they mourn this devastating loss.”

Rodriguez, 26, died Aug. 23 while supporting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, U.S. Marine Corps, Camp Pendleton, CA.

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