GOV. MALLOY DIRECTS FLAGS TO HALF-STAFF IN

HONOR OF ANDREW M. PEDERSEN-KEEL

(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Dannel P. Malloy today ordered U.S. and Connecticut flags to fly at half-staff to honor Army Captain Andrew M. Pedersen-Keel who was killed in action while serving in Afghanistan.

"Captain Pedersen-Keel made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our state and our nation," said Governor Malloy. "Our thoughts are with his family, his friends, and his unit during this very difficult time. We pray for a safe homecoming for our troops who are stationed around the world, and thank them for their bravery and service."

"This is a tragic and sad reminder that even as the conflict in Afghanistan is winding down there are still hundreds of Connecticut soldiers in harm's way," said Lieutenant Governor Nancy Wyman. "Captain Pedersen-Keel and every one of the other 63 brave men and women from our state lost in Afghanistan and Iraq died defending us and our freedom, and that sacrifice must never be forgotten."

Capt. Pedersen-Keel, 28, was a member of Company B, 1st Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group out of Fort Bragg, North Carolina. He was killed by a member of the Afghan National Police while conducting a patrol brief in the Jalrez District.

Flags will remain at half-staff until burial or memorial, information for which is forthcoming.