Three soldiers who were stationed at Ft. Wainwright and deployed to Iraq died in combat recently. The gubernatorial press release pertaining to these deaths is reproduced in its entirety here:
February 25, 2009, Juneau, Alaska – Governor Sarah Palin (Sarah) today expressed her condolences to the family and friends of three Fort Wainwright soldiers who were killed in Iraq on Monday (Mourning, 2009, ¶1).
Corporal Michael L. Mayne, 21, of Burlington Flats, N.Y.; Specialist Michael B. Alleman, 31, of Logan, Utah; and Private First Class Zachary R. Nordmeyer, 21, of Indianapolis, died of wounds suffered when their unit was attacked by small-arms fire in Balad. The soldiers were assigned to the 5th Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, based at Fort Wainwright (Mourning, 2009, ¶2).
“Our hearts go out to the family and friends of these fallen heroes who served their country with great honor and dignity,” Governor Palin said. “Their dedicated service and efforts to defend our country will not be forgotten. Todd and I send our sincerest condolences to the families during this painful time” (Mourning, 2009, ¶3).
A state flag, along with a letter of condolence, will be sent to each family (Mourning, 2009, ¶4).
Commentary
One of the most painful moments for a Commander is having to say “farewell” to fallen troops, write those letters to their next of kin, and send those flags. Those who do not know Governor Palin routinely brush aside her command experience, so this is a good opportunity for a refresher.
On September 11, 2008, Governor Palin presided over a deployment ceremony at Ft. Wainwright. Her son, Track was among those being deployed. Sarah has shared strategic command over the 49th Missile Defense Battalion which exists to intercept Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMS). She also has complete command over the Alaska State Defense Force, which is incorporated into the Department of Homeland Security’s counter-terrorism plans. That information is documented in the Gov Palin Command Experience Video.
Because of her command position, Governor Palin has high-level security clearances, and can be entrusted with secrets.
References
Palin mourns the loss of soldiers from Fort Wainwright. (2009, February 25). State of Alaska, Governor. Retrieved February 25, 2009 from: http://www.gov.state.ak.us/news.php?id=1665
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