The Department of Defense has announced the death of Sgt. 1st Class Ryan J. Savard, of Sierra Vista, while he was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
Sgt. 1st Class Savard, age 29, died October 13, in Khanabad District, Afghanistan, from small arms fire while on patrol during combat operations. He was assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, U.S. Army Special Operations Command, Fort Bragg, N. C.
Governor Brewer asked Arizonans to join her “in saluting an American hero who gave his life in service to the United States,” in Operation Enduring Freedom.
By now, we should need no reminder of the dangers our brave servicemen and women face while carrying out their duties. More than 2,000 American soldiers have been lost in the execution of Operation Enduring Freedom, launched in defense of this nation following the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.
Our cause is noble and just, but the grief is no less staggering for the families and friends left behind when one of our own is killed in wartime. I ask that Arizonans join me in offering our sincere gratitude to Sgt. 1st Class Savard, and a prayer for his loved ones. Let us hold in our hearts the courageous men and women in uniform who remain in harm’s way so that we can be safe and free.”
In honor of Arizona’s fallen hero, Sgt. 1st Class Ryan J. Savard, the Governor ordered that flags at all State buildings be flown at half-staff on October 14, 2012. State flags will again be lowered on the day of his interment, for which services are pending.