Governor orders state flags at half staff for Staff Sgt Richard L. Berry

Statement by Governor Jan Brewer

Mourning the Loss and Honoring the Service of U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Richard L. Berry

 

            “This is a day of sorrow as Arizonans bid goodbye to one of our Nation’s heroes. United States Army Staff Sgt. Richard L. Berry, of Scottsdale, Arizona, died July 22, 2012, after sustaining serious injuries when an improvised explosive device detonated near his dismounted patrol. At the time of the incident, Staff Sgt. Berry, 27, was serving in the Kandahar Providence of Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

 

         “Staff Sgt. Berry had been assigned to the A Company, 508^th Special Troops Battalion, 82^nd Airborne Division, based at Fort Bragg, in North Carolina. On this somber day, I encourage all Arizonans to take a moment to reflect upon the daily sacrifice of men and women in uniform such as Staff Sgt. Berry. Their bravery and selfless service protects and preserves the American freedoms we hold dear. Please join me in keeping Staff Sgt. Berry, his family and his fellow servicemen and women in your hearts and prayers during this difficult time.

 

         “On Friday, July 20, President Obama ordered that the American flag be flown at half-staff until sunset July 25, 2012, in remembrance of the victims of the mass shooting in Aurora, Colorado. Today, per my order, lowered State flags in Arizona also will stand as special recognition and tribute to Staff Sgt. Richard L. Berry for his service and sacrifice to a grateful Nation. State flags will be lowered once more on the day of his interment, for which services are pending.”