Flags at Half-Staff: WW1 Veteran and young soldier honored

As a mark of respect for the last surviving veteran of World War I, President Barack Obama has ordered the U.S. flags to fly at half-staff for Army Corporal Frank W. Buckles today, the day of his interment.   

Corporal Buckles died at 110 years old on February 22, 2011, and will be buried today in Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors. He served as an Army ambulance driver on the western front during WWI.

Governor Dannel P. Malloy released the following statement yesterday after learning that another Connecticut soldier has been killed in the line of duty in Afghanistan.

Sergeant First Class Daehan Park, whose parents live in Connecticut, was killed on Saturday when his vehicle hit an IED in Wardak Province, Afghanistan.

“Sergeant First Class Park’s family, particularly his father and stepmother, his wife and children, as well as his friends, are in Cathy’s and my thoughts and prayers,” said Governor Malloy.  “This is a devastating time for those who knew and loved Sgt. First Class Park, and for the people with whom he served, as well.  He is a hero who died serving his country and he will be honored and remembered as such.  We are reminded of the toll war exacts on this country and military families, and how important it is to thank our soldiers for the work they are doing.  We pray for their safe return.”

Sgt. First Class Park, 36, enlisted in Watertown, Conn., served in the Army Special Forces and leaves behind a wife and two daughters in their Washington state hometown. 

The Governor has ordered Connecticut and U.S. flags lowered to half staff. They will be raised again at sunset the day of Sgt. First Class Park’s interment, details of which are forthcoming.