CAMP MURRAY, Wash. - A Washington National Guardsman serving with the Mississippi National Guard in Iraq passed away on Thursday, February 25. 

Sergeant William Spencer, age 40 from Tacoma, sustained an injury in Iraq and was evacuated to Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany where he later passed away. 

The cause of his injury was not combat related and is currently under investigation.

"I am deeply saddened by the loss of Sergeant Spencer.  The entire state stands with me in expressing our gratitude for his service and our condolences to his family," said Governor Chris Gregoire.

Sergeant Spencer served with the Washington Army National Guard's 81st Brigade Combat Team in Iraq through August 2009, and opted to stay in Iraq with the Mississippi Army National Guard when the 81st returned home.  He previously served in the U.S. Air Force before joining the WAARNG.  Details for a memorial service are not yet available as arrangements are still being made.

Approximately 300 members of The Washington National Guard are currently serving in locations around the world.

(Courtesy Washington National Guard press release)