SACRAMENTO – On behalf of all Californians, Governor Brown and First Lady Anne Gust Brown honor Staff Sgt. Matthew V. Thompson, 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. Staff Sgt. Thompson’s family will receive a letter of condolence from the Governor.
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Staff Sgt. Matthew V. Thompson, 28, of Irvine, CA, died August 23 in Helmand Province, Afghanistan, from injuries sustained when an improvised explosive device detonated near his patrol. The incident is under investigation. Staff Sgt. Thompson was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne), Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA. Staff Sgt. Thompson was supporting Operation Freedom’s Sentinel.