Cpl Jeffery Johnson, Sgt. Kenneth May Jr. killed in combat in Afghanistan

SAN DIEGO - The Pentagon released the names today of two Camp Pendleton-based Marines killed in combat in Afghanistan.

Cpl. Jeffery W. Johnson, 21, of Tomball, Texas, and Sgt. Kenneth B. May Jr., 26, of Kilgore, Texas, died in Helmand Province on Tuesday, according to the Department of Defense.

Johnson and May were members of the 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force.

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger issued the following statement regarding the deaths of Cpl. Jeffery W. Johnson of Tomball, TX, and Sgt. Kenneth B. May, Jr., of Kilgore, TX:

"Maria and I were deeply saddened to learn of the deaths of Corporal Jeffery Johnson and Sergeant Kenneth May. Both men served proudly and courageously while dedicating their lives to protecting our nation's freedoms. We will forever be grateful for their selfless service, and we send our thoughts and prayers to their families, friends and fellow Marines during this difficult time."

In honor of Cpl. Johnson and Sgt. May, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.