Arnold Schwarzenegger
California State Governor

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today issued the following statement regarding the death of Pvt. Justin P. Hartford of Elmira, NY:

“Maria and I are deeply saddened by the loss of Private Justin Hartford. His loyalty and dedication to this country is an inspiration to all of us and his sacrifice will not be forgotten. We join Californians in expressing our sincere condolences to Justin’s family, friends and fellow soldiers as they mourn this devastating loss.”

Hartford, 21, died May 8 at Joint Base Balad, Iraq, of injuries sustained from a non-combat related incident. He was assigned to the 699th Maintenance Company, Corps Support Battalion, 916th Support Brigade, U.S. Army, Fort Irwin, Calif.

In honor of Pvt. Hartford, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.