Providence, R.I. – To honor the memory of Massachusetts National Guard Spc. Dennis C. Poulin of Cumberland, who died Thursday, March 31, 2011, from injuries sustained during a non-hostile incident in Tsowkey District, Konar Province, Afghanistan, Governor Lincoln D. Chafee today ordered U.S. and Rhode Island flags across the state to be lowered to half-staff until Specialist Poulin is laid to rest.
“I was deeply saddened to learn of the loss of Specialist Poulin,” Governor Chafee said. “My thoughts are with his family during this difficult time. To mark his passing and honor his memory, I have ordered flags on all public buildings lowered to half-staff until he is laid to rest. I ask all Rhode Islanders to take a moment to remember Specialist Poulin’s life and service.”
Specialist Poulin, 26, deployed to Afghanistan in July 2010. He was a member of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 181st Infantry Regiment, Massachusetts National Guard, at the time of his death. Specialist Poulin was a gunner in a Mine-Resistant Ambush-Protected (MRAP) vehicle when it rolled over on March 28, 2011. He was medically evacuated to Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, Landstuhl, Germany, where he died from his injuries.
The Governor’s order applies to both U.S. and State flags on all public buildings in the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations.