Governor M. Jodi Rell today issued the following statement after learning of the death of Marine Lance Cpl. Stephen Bixler, 20, of Suffield while serving in Fallujah, Iraq.

"The thoughts and prayers of all Connecticut residents are with the Bixler family today," Governor Rell said. "Lance Cpl. Bixler served his country honorably, and he bravely defended our freedom. His loss is extremely painful to us, but we will remember with deep gratitude his courageous service and will always honor his sacrifice."

Governor Rell has ordered both the United States flag and the State of Connecticut flag to be flown at half-staff until sundown on the day of Lance Cpl. Bixler’s interment, which has not yet been determined.

Federal law permits the Governor to lower the United States flag to half-staff in the event of the death of a present or former government official which includes the death in the line of duty of any member of the U.S. Armed Services from Connecticut.


Related Stories - Lance Corporal Stephen Bixler:
Journal Inquirer
Boston.com
WRAL
Associated Press
The Nutmeg Grater (blog)

Related Stories - Captain Brian Letendre:
ABC-7
NBC-4
Hartford Courant - Captain Mourned Like a Native Son

Also see:
Hartford Courant - Second Marine with CT Ties killed this week in Iraq
DOD Release


Our hearts are with the family, friends, and comrades of these fallen heroes.