Arnold Schwarzenegger
California State Governor

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today issued the following statement regarding the deaths of Cpl. Jeffery W. Johnson of Tomball, TX, and Sgt. Kenneth B. May, Jr., of Kilgore, TX:

"Maria and I were deeply saddened to learn of the deaths of Corporal Jeffery Johnson and Sergeant Kenneth May. Both men served proudly and courageously while dedicating their lives to protecting our nation's freedoms. We will forever be grateful for their selfless service, and we send our thoughts and prayers to their families, friends and fellow Marines during this difficult time."

Johnson, 21, and May, 26, died May 11 while supporting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan. Both were assigned to 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, U.S. Marine Corps, Camp Pendleton, CA.

In honor of Cpl. Johnson and Sgt. May, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.