Fallen Marine to Be Honored in Los Alamitos

A Marine killed in Afghanistan this week is scheduled to arrive next week at the Los Alamitos Joint Forces Training Base, where his family will receive his coffin in a solemn ceremony known as a Hero Mission.

According to the Department of Defense, Christopher G. Singer, 23, of Temecula died Saturday while conducting combat operations in the Helmand province of Afghanistan. He was assigned to 3rd Combat Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force in Twentynine Palms.

Gov. Jerry Brown has ordered flags to be flown at half staff over the State Capitol. His office issued a statement to the Singer family:

“On behalf of all Californians, Governor Brown and First Lady Anne Gust Brown honor Cpl. Christopher G. Singer, who bravely gave his life in service to our state and nation. The Governor and First Lady extend their deepest condolences to his family and friends at this difficult time.”

Singer’s coffin is expected to arrive in Los Alamitos early next week,” said Lt. Jan Bender, base spokesperson. Details of the flight are still being arranged. If the Singer family grants approval, the Hero Mission will be open to the public. Community members are encouraged to attend to pay their respects to the service and sacrifice of the Singer family.