Arnold Schwarzenegger
California State Governor

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today issued the following statement regarding the death of Staff Sgt. Christopher J. Antonik of Crystal Lake, IL:

“Maria and I are deeply saddened by the loss of Staff Sergeant Christopher Antonik. He was one of America’s finest, and his death is a sobering reminder of the dangers our men and women in uniform face every day. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.”

Antonik, 29, died July 11 while supporting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan. He was assigned to 1st Marine Special Operations Battalion, U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command, U.S. Marine Corps, Camp Pendleton, CA.

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