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MCC Daily Tribune Archive

Flags at Half-Staff Today


Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has directed that flags be flown at half-staff on Thursday, June 23 in honor of a Fort Drum soldier who died of wounds in Afghanistan on June 18.

Private 1st Class Brian J. Backus died when insurgents attacked his unit with small arms fire in Kandahar province. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment of the 10th Mountain Division's 3rd Brigade Combat Team. He was from Saginaw Township, Michigan.

"I join with all New Yorkers in extending our deepest sympathies and condolences to the family, friends, and fellow soldiers of Private 1st Class Backus," Governor Cuomo said. "We embrace all of the soldiers stationed at Fort Drum as part of the New York family. We will mourn his passing and honor his contribution to our nation."

Linda Williams
Public Safety
06/23/2011