"News of this weekend's devastating insurgent attack in southwestern Afghanistan – which killed two of our own Yuma-based U.S. Marines – has left Arizonans and Americans with heavy hearts.

"Lt. Col. Christopher K. Raible, 40, of Huntington, Pa., and Sgt. Bradley W. Atwell, 27, of Kokomo, Ind., died September 15, 2012, while supporting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan. Both men were assigned to MCAS Yuma.

"Lt. Col. Raible joined the U.S. Marine Corps in 1995, where he served as an AV-8B Harrier pilot. He previously served in support of both Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Sgt. Atwell joined the Marine Corps in 2005, and served as an electrical systems technician. Both Marines were highly-decorated and recognized for their accomplishments and service to the United States. Each will be dearly missed and, for their selfless and honorable sacrifice to our Nation, neither will be forgotten.

"I ask that my fellow Arizonans join me today in offering heartfelt prayers and deepest condolences for the families and friends of Lt. Col. Raible and Sgt. Atwell. Please also continue to pray for the men and women in our Armed Forces as they fight to protect our Nation and defend our freedom.

"In honor of Lt. Col. Christopher K. Raible and Sgt. Bradley W. Atwell, I have ordered that flags at all State buildings be lowered from sunrise until sunset on Tuesday, September 18, 2012."