Three more soldiers from Fort
Richardson killed in Iraq
December 29, 2006
Friday
Alaska Governor Sarah Palin expressed sadness this week with
the news that three more soldiers from Fort Richardson were killed
in Iraq. A total of nine soldiers with Alaska ties have been
killed this month, making December the deadliest month on record.
"This month has been a particularly devastating one for
Alaska's troops and their families," said Governor Palin.
"It is a somber reminder that our soldiers, our neighbors,
are in harm's way every single day fighting a ruthless enemy
so that others may know freedom."
Specialist Douglas L. Tinsley, 21, and Specialist Joseph A. Strong,
21, were killed while on patrol in Baghdad, Iraq, on Tuesday,
December 26, 2006. Both soldiers were assigned to 3rd Battalion,
509th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 4th Airborne Brigade Combat
Team, 25th Infantry Division based at Fort Richardson. One other
Paratrooper was injured in this attack.
Staff Sergeant Jacob G. McMillan, 25, was killed while on patrol
in Baghdad, Iraq, on Wednesday, December 20, 2006. He was assigned
to Headquarters Company, 4th Airborne Brigade Combat Team, 25th
Infantry Division based at Fort Richardson. Three other paratroopers
were injured in the attack, two of them seriously.
"I am saddened by the loss of these brave soldiers,"
said Palin. "My thoughts and prayers go out to their families,
friends and fellow soldiers. Our paratroopers have suffered
tragic losses in recent days and they should know how grateful
we are as a state and as a nation for their selfless service."
SPC Tinsley, originally from Chester, South Carolina, joined
the Army in September of 2004 and SPC Strong, originally from
Lebanon, Indiana, joined the Army in January of 2005. SSG McMillan
joined the Army in August of 1999. He was from Lafayette, Louisiana,
and was assigned to Fort Richardson in February 2004.
"I continue to pray for the safety of all the men and women
of our Armed Services," said Palin. "They continue
to display great courage and dedication and I join all Alaskans
in hoping these heroes return home safely to their families.
We will never forget their sacrifices."
The soldiers' families will each receive a letter of condolence
from Governor Palin and an Alaska state flag that will be flown
over the Capitol in their honor.
Source of News:
Office of the Governor
www.gov.state.ak.us
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