Published: June 21, 2007
Gold River Soldier Dies in Kirkuk, Iraq
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Sgt. Derek T. Roberts, of Gold River, CA:
"The personal sacrifices made by members of our armed forces to defend our nation epitomize courage and the American spirit. California has suffered a great loss with the death of Sergeant Derek Roberts, and Maria and I humbly pay tribute to the great sacrifice he made for our nation. Our hearts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Derek."
Roberts, 24, died June 14 as a result of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle in Kirkuk, Iraq. Roberts was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 35th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Infantry Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, United States Army, Schofield Barracks, HI.
In honor of Sgt. Roberts, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.