Gov. Gregoire�s statement on the loss of a Washington National Guardsman

For Immediate Release: February 26, 2010

OLYMPIA � Gov. Chris Gregoire today issued the following statement on the loss of Sergeant William Spencer of Tacoma, who died from non-combat related injuries while serving in Iraq:

�I stand with all Washingtonians today as we mourn the loss of Sergeant William Spencer. Sergeant Spencer was a proud member of the 81st � and chose to stay in Iraq with the Mississippi Army National Guard when his unit came home. He is a true hero who sacrificed his life to protect our freedoms, and provide a better life for those living in the Middle East.

�I extend my deepest condolences to Sergeant Spencer�s friends, family and loved ones. My family will certainly keep them in our thoughts and prayers.�