Arnold Schwarzenegger
California State Governor

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the deaths of Sgt. Michael Toussiant-Hyle Washington of Tacoma, WA; Lance Cpl. Layton Bradly Crass of Richmond, IN; Pfc. Dawid Pietrek of Bensenville, IL; and Pfc. Michael Robert Patton of Fenton, MO:

“Maria and I were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of these four American heroes. They served the people of the United States with pride and courage and their commitment to defending our country and fellow citizens will never be forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of these true patriots during this difficult time.”

Washington, 20, Crass, 22, Pietrek, 24 and Patton, 19 died June 14 while supporting combat operations in Farah Province, Afghanistan. They were assigned to 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, United States Marine Corps, Twentynine Palms, CA.

In honor of Sgt. Washington, Lance Cpl. Crass, Pfc. Pietrek and Pfc. Patton, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.