California Gov. Schwarzenegger Issues Statement on Death of Riverside Air Force Staff Sergeant: Staff Sgt. Alejandro Ayala

California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Staff Sgt. Alejandro Ayala, of Riverside, CA:

"Maria and I are terribly saddened by the loss of Staff Sergeant Alejandro Ayala. He served our country with courage and honor, characteristics that define the members of our nation's brave armed forces. We extend our continued prayers to Alejandro's family and friends as they mourn a cherished loved one."

Ayala, 26, died Nov. 18 of injuries sustained as a result of a vehicle accident in Kuwait. Ayala was assigned to the 90th Logistics Readiness Squadron, United States Air Force, F.E. Warren Air Force Base, WY. The cause of the accident is under investigation.

In honor of Staff Sgt. Ayala, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.