Arnold Schwarzenegger
California State Governor

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today issued the following statement regarding the death of Lance Cpl. Nigel K. Olsen, 21 of Orem, UT:

"Lance Corporal Nigel Olsen was a heroic Marine who put his life on the line, willingly facing danger to defend the freedoms we are lucky enough to enjoy every day. His death is a terrible loss for our country and our armed forces. Maria and I send our most sincere condolences and prayers to his family, friends and fellow Marines during this very difficult time."

Olsen, 21, died March 4 while supporting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan. He was assigned to the 4th Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 4th Marine Division, Marine Forces Reserve, based out of Camp Pendleton, CA.

In honor of Lance Cpl. Olsen, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.