SACRAMENTO – On behalf of all Californians, Governor Brown and First Lady Anne Gust Brown honor Lt. Col. Benjamin J. Palmer, 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.
In memorial, Governor Brown ordered that flags be flown at half-staff over the State Capitol today. Lt. Col. Palmer’s family will receive a letter of condolence from the Governor.
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Lt. Col. Benjamin J. Palmer, 43, of Modesto, CA, died May 12 in Helmand province, Afghanistan, of injuries sustained while supporting combat operations. He was assigned to the Marine Wing Headquarters Squadron 2, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Cherry Point, NC. Palmer was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.