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 20, 2009, in honor and remembrance of Sergeant C. Wayne Hosford.

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

WHEREAS: Sergeant C. Wayne Hosford was born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, on December 28, 1973; and

WHEREAS: Sergeant C. Wayne Hosford enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, and later joined the Minnesota Army National Guard before transferring to the Illinois Army National Guard; and

WHEREAS: Sergeant C. Wayne Hosford was a member of the 2nd Battalion, 106th Cavalry Regiment, 33rd Brigade Combat Team, based out of Dixon, Illinois; and

WHEREAS: Sergeant C. Wayne Hosford was a devoted soldier and selfless leader. He loved serving his country and did so with great pride; and

WHEREAS: Sergeant C. Wayne Hosford died a hero fighting for freedom on Monday, July 6, 2009, in Konduz, Afghanistan, while serving in support of Operation Enduring Freedom; and

WHEREAS: Sergeant C. Wayne Hosford is survived by his son, Tristyn; brothers, Cliff and Brad; sister and brother-in-law, Michelle and Ryan; five nieces and nephews; and other loving family and friends; and

WHEREAS: Sergeant C. Wayne Hosford was preceded in death by his mother, Yvonne Elaine Hosford; and

WHEREAS: Visitation for Sergeant C. Wayne Hosford will be held Sunday, July 19, 2009, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Wise Family Funeral Home, Hastings, Minnesota; and

WHEREAS: A funeral service with full military honors for Sergeant C. Wayne Hosford will be held Monday, July 20, 2009, at 1:00 p.m. at Fort Snelling National Cemetery, Fort Snelling, Minnesota; and

WHEREAS: The State of Minnesota thanks Sergeant C. Wayne Hosford for his dedicated service to the people of this country, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.

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 20, 2009, in honor and remembrance of Sergeant C. Wayne Hosford.