On behalf of all Californians, Jerry Brown and First Lady Anne Gust Brown honor Lance Cpl. Benjamin W. Schmidt, 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. Lance Cpl. Schmidt’s family will receive a letter of condolence from the Governor.
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Lance Cpl. Benjamin W. Schmidt, 24, of San Antonio, TX, died October 6 in Helmand Province, Afghanistan, while conducting combat operations. He was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, CA. Schmidt was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.