Gov. Jay Inslee and Maj. Gen. Bret Daugherty, commander of the Washington National Guard, issued the following statements today after learning about the death of Washington National Guard SSG Matthew McClintock in Afghanistan.
McClintock, 30, of Des Moines, WA, was on his third combat tour when he was killed in action on January 5th in the Helmand Province in South Afghanistan.
“The death of any service member is tragic,” Inslee said. “The death of one of our own is especially difficult to grasp. My thoughts and prayers are with Staff Sergeant McClintock’s friends and family, including his wife and infant son. He is a true American hero who stood up to protect his state and nation. Trudi and I are deeply grateful for his service.”
“Staff Sergeant McClintock was one of the best of the best,” Daugherty said. “He was a Green Beret who sacrificed time away from his loved ones to train for and carry out these dangerous missions. This is a tough loss for our organization, and a harsh reminder that ensuring freedom is not free. We stand with Staff Sergeant McClintock’s family, and will provide ongoing support during the grieving and healing process.”
McClintock joined the Washington National Guard in 2014 after several years as an active duty soldier. He deployed with the Washington National Guard’s A Co. 1/19th Special Forces Group in July, 2015.
A memorial service is pending.
Approximately 350 members of the Washington National Guard are currently serving in locations around the world. The citizen soldiers and airmen of the Washington National Guard are dedicated to the mission of safeguarding lives and property in Washington State, and serving as sentinels for freedom overseas.