March 09, 2004

By: Don French
Website: http://www.1st-in-flags.com

Governor Pataki: flags to half mast for fallen guard members

Governor Pataki today ordered flags at state military installations and armories across New York State to half mast in honor of the National Guard aviators who lost their lives in last night's tragic helicopter crash in Long Island.

"The entire State of New York mourns the loss of these brave members of the National Guard family," Governor Pataki said. "Our prayers are with these fallen heroes and their families, and are also with the two guardsmen still fighting for their lives. We are deeply and profoundly saddened by this tragedy." Last night Governor Pataki ordered a team from the New York Air National Guard's 106th Rescue Wing from Westhampton to the MacArthur Airport crash site to secure and preserve the scene until investigators from the Army's Aviation Safety Center at Ft. Rucker, Alabama arrive today.

"The Air Guard team will provide the necessary logistical support, so that the Army Guard aviation units involved may concentrate on their responsibilities to the soldiers and their families," the Governor said. National Guard chaplains and casualty assistance officers have also been deployed to the site to ensure that the needs of the families and fellow Guardsmen are identified and met.

Also see: American Flags

About The Author:

Don French is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.1st-in-flags.com.  The flags of the world are symbols of recognition full of beauty and color for each country.