California Governor Jerry Brown has ordered flags above the State Capitol be lowered today in honor of Army Staff Sgt. Robert E. Thomas Jr. of Fontana.
Thomas, 24, died September 13 at Brooke Army Medical Center on Fort Sam Houston in Texas after suffering injuries in a "non-combat related incident" on April 21, 2013, in Maiwand, Afghanistan.
A statement released by the governor reads, in part:
"On behalf of all Californians, Governor Brown and First Lady Anne Gust Brown honor Staff Sgt. Robert E. Thomas Jr., who bravely gave his life in service to our state and nation. The Governor and First Lady extend their deepest condolences to his family and friends at this difficult time. "
Thomas was a squad leader to a mortar platoon with the 1st Battalion, 36th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team at Fort Bliss.
He leaves behind his wife, Kristina, and a daughter, Hailey.
