Arnold Schwarzenegger
California State Governor

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today issued the following statement regarding the death of Staff Sgt. Anton R. Phillips of Inglewood:

"Maria and I are deeply saddened by the death of Staff Sergeant Anton Phillips, a courageous soldier who committed his life to protecting the ideals our country was built upon. We join all Californians in expressing our admiration and respect for Anton's service and together we honor his sacrifice. We send our deepest condolences to Anton's family, friends and fellow soldiers during this difficult time."

Phillips, 31, died December 31, at Forward Operating Base Methar Lam, Afghanistan. He was assigned to G Forward Support Company, 77th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Battalion, Task Force Wildhorse, U.S. Army, Forward Operating Base Methar Lam, Afghanistan.

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