Flags Will Fly At Half Staff For Fair Haven Serviceman

FAIR HAVEN, NJ — Governor Phil Murphy ordered that next Monday, Feb. 4 the U.S. and New Jersey flags be flown at half-staff at all state buildings and facilities in honor of the late Private First Class Jamie R. Riley of Fair Haven, who was killed in a training exercise in the Army.

On Tuesday, January 22, Pfc. Riley was killed in a training accident while on active duty at McGregor Range in New Mexico. Also killed was Corporal Cole Trevor Wixom of Bloomingdale, Michigan.

Seven other military members remain hospitalized after two military training vehicles crashed in southern New Mexico, according to The Associated Press.

Riley was 21 and Wixom was 24.

“I am deeply saddened to hear of the death of Jamie Riley, a dedicated servicemember from New Jersey,” said Governor Murphy. “Jamie was selfless in his service to our nation, sacrificing his life to protect the freedom of his fellow Americans. Tammy and I extend our sincerest condolences to Pfc. Riley’s family and friends in this difficult time.”

Pfc. Riley served as a cavalry scout and joined the Army in January of 2018. As a servicemember, he arrived at Fort Bliss, Texas in June of 2018. His awards and decorations include the National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, and Air Assault badge.

Photo of Riley from the 1st Armored Division