“I am deeply saddened by the tragic loss of soldiers from Arkansas’s 39th Brigade, who died while supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. These brave Americans lost their lives while making the ultimate sacrifice to serve our country, and I will be forever grateful to them for their courageous spirit.

"Members from the 39th Brigade who were killed from Arkansas were: Capt. Arthur L. Felder, of Louisville; Chief Warrant Patrick W. Kordsmeier, of North Little Rock;  Staff Sgt. Billy J. Orton, of Humnoke;  and Staff Sgt. Stacey C. Brandon, of Hazen.
 
“Losing a soldier from home is especially difficult, and my thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of these brave soldiers, as they mourn the loss of these extraordinary American heroes."