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Non-combat Related Incident Takes Life of FSM Soldier in the US Army

Palikir, Pohnpei (FSM Information Services): February 23, 2009 - The FSM National Government was informed today that one of its citizens, 19-year-old Cwislyn K. Walter of Chuuk, was killed in a vehicle accident on February 19^th, in Kuwait City, Kuwait, of injuries sustained from a non-combat related incident. PFC Walter was assigned to the 29^th Special Troops Battalion, 29^th Infantry Brigade Combat Team of the Hawaii National Guard and was support Operation Iraqi Freedom. The US Department of Defense is investigating the accident. Three other Hawaii Army National Guard soldiers were seriously injured in the accident.

An article in the Hawaii Star Bulletin mentioned that her parents, who are living in Hawaii, were notified Thursday night of the accident. The article mentioned that her parents stated that they are "very proud of their daughter's service to her country" and they thanked the Guard and community for their support.

The US Ambassador to the FSM paid a visit to Palikir today and met with President Mori to give more details about the incident and the upcoming funeral possibilities. Both the US military and the FSM National Government are prepared to assist with the funeral arrangements once the family has made a decision on where it will take place.