SACRAMENTO /California Newswire/ — Calif. Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today issued the following statement regarding the death of Capt. John P. Gaffaney of San Diego: “Maria and I were shocked and saddened to learn of the passing of Captain John Gaffaney who was a dedicated member of our armed forces. John selflessly worked to keep our state and nation safe and our hearts are heavy as we join all Californians in remembering his service. We send our deepest condolences to John’s family and friends and join the nation in sending our thoughts and prayers to all of the Fort Hood shooting victims and their loved ones.”

Gaffaney, 54, died on November 5 after an Army psychiatrist allegedly armed himself with two guns and opened fire on the grounds of Fort Hood last Thursday afternoon, killing 13 people and injuring 29 others. He was assigned to the 1908th Medical Company, Independence, MO.

On Friday, in accordance with the President’s order, Governor Schwarzenegger ordered the flags at all state buildings to be flown at half-staff in remembrance of the victims of the Fort Hood shootings until Veterans Day.

ABOUT THE EDITOR: Valerie Gotten (aka Valerie G) is an abstract painter, former movie stand-in, and volunteers for "green events" to help raise awareness about global warming, and help preserve California's wilderness and natural beauty.

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