Flags were flown at half-staff at the Nevada State Capitol on Wednesday to honor Army Sgt. Timothy M. Smith, a South Shore native. California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger indicated his state would do the same.
In a statement Wednesday, Schwarzenegger lauded Smith's service: "Sgt. Timothy Smith served his country with pride, distinction and relentless bravery.
"Maria (Shriver) and I stand with the people of California in honoring the life of this American hero, who answered the call to defend liberty and safeguard the United States.
"Our thoughts and prayers go out to Timothy's family and friends as they mourn the passing of a great soldier and an extraordinarily selfless Californian."
Nevada Gov. Jim Gibbons offered a statement Wednesday praising Smith's efforts to keep America safe: "I would like to offer the state of Nevada's most sincere thanks and heartfelt condolences to Sgt. Smith's family and friends during this difficult time.
"I truly hope that as everyone who knew him copes with his death, they find some comfort knowing that the state of Nevada, and the entire country, is safer because of his sacrifice.
"Sgt. Smith's death in Iraq should be a sober reminder to each of us to be thankful to those serving throughout all branches of our military."
The Lake Tahoe Unified School District, the city of South Lake Tahoe and St. Theresa School also will fly flags at half-staff until Friday to honor Smith.
