Gibbons releases statement on Sgt. Schober

Gov. Jim Gibbons released a statement today about the death in Iraq of Army Sgt. Anthony Jason Schober, 23, formerly of Gardnerville.

"Dawn and I offer our thoughts and prayers to the friends and family of Sgt. Schober as they endure the loss of one of our nation's true heroes, " Gibbons says.

"Sgt. Schober exemplified honor and love of country, serving three tours in Iraq in support of the Global War on Terror," the governor says. "We honor his service to our country and recognize the ultimate sacrifice he made in the name of freedom.

"Dawn, and I also extend our prayers to the friends and family of the three soldiers of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, who were captured and reportedly are now being held by al-Qaida terrorists."

Schober served with the 4th Battalion, 31st Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry) based at Fort Drum, New York.

In honor of Schober, flags at the Nevada State Capitol will be flown at half-staff, Gibbons announced.

At a Friday afternoon press conference, stepfather Edward Schober said he had known Anthony since the soldier was 2 and adopted him at age 5.

He said Schober came to him after the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks and said he wanted to enlist in the military. He was 17 at the time.

A major from Schober's unit at Fort Drum also was in attendance. He has been sent to Carson City to assist the family.