On March 16, 2009, Alaska Governor Sarah Palin “offered her condolences to the family and friends of Staff Sergeant Timothy Bowles who died Sunday in Afghanistan. Bowles, a member of the 3rd Wing deployed to Bagram Air Base, was killed when his vehicle was destroyed by an improvised explosive device while on patrol checking on a local school” (Elmendorf, 2009, ¶1).
“Sergeant Bowles faithfully served our nation with valor and pride and we are truly grateful,” Governor Palin said. “Todd and I extend our sympathies to his family, friends, and fellow soldiers as they mourn the loss of this brave individual” (Elmendorf, 2009, ¶2).
“Bowles was a fire truck mechanic assigned to the 3rd Logistics Readiness Squadron. He arrived at Elmendorf Air Force Base in July 2007 and was assigned to the Vehicle Management Flight. He deployed to Bagram Air Base on November 1, 2008″ (Elmendorf, 2009, ¶3).
As is customary in Alaska, Bowle’s family will receive a letter of condolence and a state flag (Elmendorf, 2009, ¶4).
Commentary
Because Staff Seargant Bowles was in the US Air Force and not the Alaska National Guard, this is not a command experience item for Governor Palin, but it is worthy of posting for two reasons. First, Staff Sergeant Bowles would otherwise be an unsung hero. It is only right that his story be told and his sacrifice be honored. The second reason is to highlight the State of Alaska’s protocol when anyone deployed to any base located there falls in combat.
As noted on February 25, when Governor Palin mourned the loss of three soldiers. She has shared strategic command over the 49th Missile Defense Battalion and complete command over the Alaska State Defense Force, which receives Department of Homeland Security briefings on sensitive counter-terrorism matters. Governor Palin has top security clearances because of the command authority vested in her.
References
Palin mourns the loss of Elmendorf Airman
Staff Sergeant Timothy Bowles. (2009, March 16). State of Alaska, Governor. Retrieved March 18, 2009 from: http://www.gov.state.ak.us/news.php?id=1714
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