Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today issued the following statement regarding the death of Staff Sgt. Casey J. Grochowiak of Lompoc, CA:
“On behalf of all Californians, Maria and I offer our sincere condolences to Staff Sergeant Casey Grochowiak’s family and loved ones as they mourn the loss of his life. Casey was an honorable soldier, and the bravery he displayed in the line of duty is an inspiration for us all. His service and sacrifice in the name of freedom will not be forgotten.”
Grochowiak, 34, died August 30 in Malajat, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 22nd Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Carson, CO.
In honor of Staff Sgt. Grochowiak, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.