The Department of Defense has announced the death of a Marine who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. Sgt. Daniel D. Gurr, 21, of Vernal, Utah, died Aug. 5 while conducting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan. He was assigned to the 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward), Okinawa, Japan.
Governor Gary R. Herbert issued the following statement on the death of Sgt. Gurr:
“Jeanette and I join the entire State of Utah in our gratitude for the noble service and sacrifice of Sgt. Daniel Gurr. We honor him for pursuing his dream of military service for the country he loved. With heavy hearts, we offer his family our deepest condolences, prayers for peace, and appreciation for their dedication to freedom and our nation.
“The day before I left for the Middle East, I attended the funeral of another fallen soldier and upon landing in Utah last night, learned of Sgt. Gurr’s death. It was a moving moment to be so grateful to be back home and yet realize the ultimate price paid by our soldiers and their families that we might enjoy these freedoms.”