Alaska Governor Palin Mourns Fort Richardson Paratrooper’s Death in Iraq

October 12, 2007, Juneau, Alaska – Alaska Governor Sarah Palin expresses her condolences to the family and friends of Sergeant Jason M. Lantieri, who died in Iraq on Tuesday.

Lantieri died of injuries incurred during late night vehicle maneuvers in the vicinity of Iskandarya, Iraq, about 30 miles south of Baghdad. His death occurred on Wednesday, Iraq time, which is Tuesday, Alaska time.

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Lantieri, 25, of Killingworth, Connecticut, was a truck driver who joined the Army in November 2004 and was assigned to Fort Richardson in April 2005.

“The loss of any of our soldiers diminishes all of us, and my family and I extend our sincere condolences to Sergeant Lantieri’s family, friends and comrades in arms,” Governor Palin said. “Along with all Alaskans, Todd and I are grateful for his service, and continue to pray for the safe return of all who serve overseas.”

Lantieri was assigned to Echo Company, 725th Brigade Support Battalion, 4th Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 25th Infantry Division, U.S. Army Alaska.

Governor Palin will fly a state flag over the Capitol in honor of Sergeant Lantieri. The flag will be sent along with a letter of condolence to his family.

Source: Alaska Governor