Governor Mourns Loss of (Another) Soldier with Maine Ties -6/25

[MaineDem]

AUGUSTA - Governor John E. Baldacci today mourned the loss of an active
duty Army soldier with Maine ties. Sgt. Joel A. House died as a result
of an IED attack in Taji, Iraq, on June 23, 2007. The notification of
the soldier's family has been completed.
Sgt. House was serving in Iraq with the 1st Calvary Division from Fort
Hood, Texas. His parents Paul and Deanna reside in Lee, Maine.
Governor Baldacci spoke to Sgt. House's parents over the weekend to
express his condolences on behalf of the State of Maine.
"This is an incredible family," said Governor Baldacci. "They have
given so much. Joel was one of five generations of soldiers in his
family who served their country in the military. His parents expressed
a deep pride in what their son accomplished in his short lifetime. It
is a great tragedy that Maine has lost another beloved and talented son.
We join as a state in expressing our deepest sympathies to Joel's
family."
No funeral arrangements have been made public at this time, and no
further information is currently available. The Governor will order
flags to be lowered to half-staff on the day of the funeral.
###