SACRAMENTO – On behalf of all Californians, Gov. Gavin Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom honor Master Sgt. Jose J. Gonzalez, who bravely gave his life in service to our state and nation.

The governor and first partner extend their deepest condolences to his family and friends at this difficult time.

In memorial, Gov. Newsom ordered that flags be flown at half-staff over the State Capitol. Master Sgt. Gonzalez's family will receive a letter of condolence from the governor.

Master Sgt. Jose J. Gonzalez, 35, of La Puente, CA, died Aug. 21 in Faryab Province, Afghanistan, as a result of wounds sustained from small arms fire while engaged in combat operations. The incident is under investigation.

He was assigned to 1st Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne), Eglin Air Force Base, Florida.

Master Sgt. Gonzalez was supporting Operation Freedom's Sentinel.