Arnold Schwarzenegger
California State Governor

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today issued the following statement regarding the death of Sgt. Ian M. Tawney of Dallas, OR:

“On behalf of all Californians, I share my admiration for the loyalty and courage shown by Sergeant Ian Tawney in the line of duty. His selflessness and sacrifice remind us all to cherish our freedoms. Maria and I send our condolences to Ian’s family, friends and fellow Marines as they grieve this tragic loss.”

Tawney, 25, died October 16 while conducting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan. He was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, CA.

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