Saint Paul – Governor Tim Pawlenty has ordered all U.S. flags and Minnesota flags be flown at half-staff at all state and federal buildings in the State of Minnesota, from sunrise until sunset on Monday, July 26, 2010, in honor and remembrance of First Lieutenant Christopher S. Goeke.

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

WHEREAS: First Lieutenant Christopher S. Goeke was born in Cleveland, Ohio, on August 18, 1986; and

WHEREAS: First Lieutenant Christopher S. Goeke graduated from Apple Valley High School, Apple Valley, Minnesota, in 2004; and

WHEREAS: First Lieutenant Christopher S. Goeke enlisted in the United States Army in 2004, and graduated sixth in his class from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in 2008; and

WHEREAS: First Lieutenant Christopher S. Goeke was a member of C Company, 1st Battalion, 508th Infantry of the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, United States Army, Fort Bragg, North Carolina; and

WHEREAS: First Lieutenant Christopher S. Goeke was a devoted soldier. He was a selfless and beloved leader among his peers and always brought smiles, laughter, and wisdom beyond his years; and

WHEREAS: First Lieutenant Christopher S. Goeke died a hero on Tuesday, July 13, 2010, in Kandahar City, Afghanistan while serving in support of Operation Enduring Freedom; and WHEREAS: First Lieutenant Christopher S. Goeke is survived by his wife, Kelsey; father, Randy; mother, Pam; sisters, Jennifer and Jessica; brother, Matthew; grandmother, Evelyn; grandfather, Raymond; and other loving family and friends; and

WHEREAS: Visitation for First Lieutenant Christopher S. Goeke will be held Sunday, July 25, 2010, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, Burnsville, Minnesota; and

WHEREAS: Funeral service for First Lieutenant Christopher S. Goeke will be held Sunday, July 25, 2010, at 5:00 p.m. at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, Burnsville, Minnesota; and

WHEREAS: Interment with full military honors will be held Monday, July 26, 2010, at Fort Snelling National Cemetery, Fort Snelling, Minnesota; and

WHEREAS: The State of Minnesota recognizes First Lieutenant Christopher S. Goeke 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.