Governor Honors Slain Soldiers
Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger today expressed condolences to the families of two local soldiers killed late last month in Iraq and ordered that flags at the Capitol be flown at half-staff in their honor.
Chief Warrant Officer Cornell C. Chao, 36, of Orange, died Jan. 28 as a result of wounds suffered when his helicopter crashed during combat operations in Najaf. Specialist Carla J. Stewart, 37, of Sun Valley, died after her convoy vehicle rolled over in Tallil.
"Chief Warrant Officer Chao valiantly fought for the freedoms that we hold most sacred," the Governor said in a statement. "His honorable sacrifice is an inspiration to all Californians."
Chao was assigned to the 4th Battalion, 227th Aviation Regiment, 1st Air Cavalry Brigade, 1st Calvary Division, based in Fort Hood, TX.
Stewart was assigned to the 250th Transportation Company, based in El Monte.
"Specialist Stewart will forever be remembered for her brave and selfless service to her country," Schwarzenegger said. "Maria and I join all Californians in expressing our deepest gratitude for Carla's sacrifice. We offer our sincerest condolences to Carla's family and friends as they mourn the loss of a true hero."
Schwarzenegger and his wife, Maria, also offered "thoughts and prayers" to Chao's family, friends and fellow soldiers.
Global Arnold Staff
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