Saint Paul -- Governor Tim Pawlenty today ordered that the United States flag and the State of Minnesota flag be flown at half-staff at the State Capitol until sunset on the final day of interment for our fallen soldiers, in honor and remembrance of Staff Sgt. David Day, First Lt. Jason Timmerman, and Sgt. Jesse Lhotka, who were killed in action in Iraq this past Monday.

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

WHEREAS: On Monday morning, February 21, 2005, Minnesota lost three of its bravest soldiers in the War in Iraq; and

WHEREAS: Staff Sgt. David Day, 25, First Lt. Jason Timmerman, 24, and Sgt. Jesse Lhotka, 24, were killed in action in southwest Baghdad; and

WHEREAS: All three Minnesota Army National Guard soldiers were members of the 151st Field Artillery based in Montevideo, a unit that had retrained for urban street patrol; and

WHEREAS: We deeply appreciate their service to our country. They are heroes, joining now the ranks of the brave men and women who, throughout the history of our nation, have sacrificed their lives for our freedom. For this, we are sincerely grateful; and

WHEREAS: Our thoughts and prayers are with the families, friends, and communities as they mourn this terrible tragedy.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, TIM PAWLENTY, Governor of Minnesota, do hereby proclaim that the United States flag and the State of Minnesota flag be flown at half-staff at the Capitol Complex, including state buildings, monuments and grounds in proximity to and including the Minnesota State Capitol, until sunset on the final day of interment for our fallen soldiers, in honor and remembrance of Staff Sgt. David Day, First Lt. Jason Timmerman, and Sgt. Jesse Lhotka.