Missouri - Gov. Jay Nixon has ordered that the U.S. and Missouri flags at state buildings in all 114 counties and the City of St. Louis be flown at half-staff on June 16 to honor the bravery and sacrifice of Specialist Matthew H. Walker. Specialist Walker, age 20, of Hillsboro, was a soldier in the United States Army serving in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. He died on June 5 while serving his country in Paktika Province, Afghanistan.

In addition, Gov. Nixon has ordered that the U.S. and Missouri flags at all state buildings in Jefferson County be flown at half-staff from June 17 to June 22.

“We mourn the loss of this brave American soldier in defending our country and our freedoms,” Gov. Nixon said.  “I ask that Missourians remember and honor the sacrifice of Specialist Walker when they see the lowered flags.”

Specialist Walker was assigned to the B Company, 1st Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division, Fort Campbell, Ky. His awards and decorations include the­­ Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, Army Commendation Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Bronze Service Star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, Combat Infantryman Badge, Air Assault Badge, Combat and Special Skill Badge Basis Marksmanship Qualification Badge (Bar, Weapon: Rifle (Inscription: Rifle), Expert), and the Overseas Service Bar.