Providence, RI - To honor the memory of Rhode Island National Guard Specialist Dennis P. Weichel, who died Thursday, March 22, 2012, from injuries sustained as a result of an accident involving a Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle while conducting security operations in Laghman Province, Afghanistan, Governor Lincoln D. Chafee today ordered U.S. and Rhode Island flags across the state to be lowered to half-staff until Specialist Weichel is laid to rest.
"Specialist Dennis Weichel's life was marked by bravery, selflessness, and commitment to others – and unfortunately it was in demonstrating these remarkable characteristics that it was lost. Specialist Weichel will be remembered by his fellow soldiers and commanding officers as a dedicated member of the Rhode Island National Guard. He will be remembered by friends and family as a devoted father to Nicholas, Hope, and Madison and a beloved son to Linda and Dennis. And he will be remembered, and mourned, by people across our state as a great Rhode Islander. Specialist Weichel will be deeply missed, and his loved ones are in my thoughts during this difficult time. I hope that they are able to find some comfort in their many fine memories of him," Governor Chafee said.
The Governor's order applies to both U.S. and state flags on all public buildings in the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations.