Saint Paul -- Governor Tim Pawlenty has ordered that all U.S. flags and Minnesota flags be flown at half-staff at the Capitol Complex, including state buildings, monuments, and grounds in proximity to and including the Minnesota State Capitol, from sunrise until sunset on Monday, July 27, 2009, in honor and remembrance of Specialist James D. Wertish.

The following is the text of the Governor’s official proclamation:

WHEREAS: Specialist James D. Wertish was born in Redwood Falls, Minnesota, on January 18, 1989; and

WHEREAS: Specialist James D. Wertish graduated from Bird Island-Olivia-Lake Lillian Public School, Olivia, Minnesota, in 2007; and

WHEREAS: Specialist James D. Wertish enlisted in the Minnesota Army National Guard in 2006; and

WHEREAS: Specialist James D. Wertish was a member of the 34th Military Police Company, 34th Infantry Division, Minnesota National Guard based out of Stillwater, Minnesota; and

WHEREAS:  Specialist James D. Wertish enjoyed helping on the family farm, especially driving the tractor, and also spent time snowmobiling, four-wheeling, hunting, and fishing; and

WHEREAS:  Specialist James D. Wertish was a devoted soldier and selfless leader. He loved serving his country and did so with great pride; and

WHEREAS: Specialist James D. Wertish died a hero fighting for freedom on Thursday, July 16, 2009, in Basra, Iraq, while serving in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom; and

WHEREAS: Specialist James D. Wertish is survived by his parents, David and Kim; brother, Tony; sister, Carolyn; sister and brother-in-law, Amber and Josh; niece and nephew, Caylee and Daylen; grandparents, Delores, Audrey and LeRoy; great-grandmother, Tena; and other loving family and friends; and

WHEREAS: Specialist James D. Wertish was preceded in death by his grandfathers Miloyd Wertish and Ed Rathman; and

WHEREAS: Visitation for Specialist James D. Wertish will be held Sunday, July 26, 2009, from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church, Bird Island, Minnesota; and

WHEREAS:  A Mass of Christian Burial for Specialist James D. Wertish will be held Monday, July 27, 2009, at 11:00 a.m. at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church, Bird Island, Minnesota; and

WHEREAS:  Interment with full military honors will be held Monday, July 27, 2009, at Saint Aloysius Cemetery, Olivia, Minnesota; and

WHEREAS: The State of Minnesota recognizes Specialist James D. Wertish for his dedicated service to and sacrifice for the people of this country with our deepest gratitude, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and community.

Now, Therefore, I, Tim Pawlenty, Governor of Minnesota, do hereby order all U.S. flags and Minnesota flags be flown at half-staff at the Capitol Complex, including state buildings, monuments, and grounds in proximity to and including the Minnesota State Capitol, from sunrise until sunset on Monday, July 27, 2009, in honor and remembrance of Specialist James D. Wertish.