Governor Roy Cooper today ordered all United States and North Carolina flags at state facilities to be lowered to half-staff beginning Tuesday, March 10, 2020 in honor of Gunnery Sgt. Diego D. Pongo and Marine Corps Capt. Moises A. Navas. Sgt. Pongo and Capt. Navas died while accompanying Iraqi Security Forces in north central Iraq on Sunday. They were both assigned to the 2nd Marine Raider Battalion, Marine Forces Special Operations Command at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.

In tribute, flags are to remain at half-staff through sunset on Sunday, March 15, 2020.

Statement from Governor Roy Cooper:

"We are deeply saddened by the news that two Camp Lejeune marines lost their lives in service to our country on Sunday. I am grateful for Capt. Moises A. Navas and Gunnery Sgt. Diego D. Pongo's courage, and our thoughts are with their loved ones."

As a show of respect, individuals, businesses, schools, municipalities, counties and other government subdivisions are encouraged to fly the flag at half-staff for the duration of time indicated.