"On behalf of all New Yorkers I extend our sympathy to
the friends, family, and fellow soldiers of Sgt. Johnston," Governor Cuomo
said. "His death is a reminder of the sacrifices members of the military
make to protect the freedoms and the values that this state and this nation
were founded upon."
Sgt. James G. Johnston was assigned to the 79th Ordnance
Battalion (Explosive Ordnance Disposal), a part of the 71st Ordnance Group at
Fort Hood, Texas. Sgt. Johnston was one of two Soldiers who died of wounds
sustained from small arms fire during combat operations.
Governor Cuomo has directed that the flags at New York State
facilities be lowered to half-staff in honor of and in tribute to New York
service members who are killed in combat or die in a combat zone.
