Gov. 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 Sept. 10 to honor the bravery and sacrifice of Staff Sergeant James R. Ide V. Staff Sergeant Ide, age 32, of Festus, was a soldier in the United States Army serving in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. He died on Aug. 29 of injuries sustained when insurgents attacked his unit.

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 Sept. 11 to Sept. 16.

“It is with heavy hearts that the First Lady and I remember the sacrifice made by Staff Sergeant Ide in service to his country,” Gov. Nixon said. “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family as they mourn for him.”

Staff Sergeant Ide was assigned to the 230th Military Police Company, 95th Military Police Battalion, 18th Military Police Brigade, 21st Theater Sustainment Company, Sembach, Germany. His awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, Army Commendation with Combat Distinguishing Device “V”, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal (4 awards), National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Bronze Service Star, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Korean Defense Service Medal, Noncommissioned Officers Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon (2 awards), NATO Medal, Combat Action Badge, Combat and Special Skill Badge Basic Marksmanship Qualification Badge (Bar, Weapon: Rifle (Inscription: Rifle), Expert), and Overseas Service Bar.