(Juneau) - Senators Charlie Huggins (R-Rural Mat-Su/Chugiak) and Con Bunde (R-Anchorage) along with Representative Bob Lynn (R-Anchorage) presented the Gold Star Banner to Sharon Long, earlier this morning.

The Gold Star Banner is given to families who have lost a loved one during wartime. Ms. Long is the mother of Lance Corporal Grant Fraser, a Marine from Anchorage who was killed in action in Iraq last August.

Representative Lynn read a citation on the House Floor honoring the soldier. "Lance Corporal Fraser represents the edge of the sword in protecting every one of us and all we hold dear," said Representative Lynn. "Words alone cannot express our gratitude."

Senator Con Bunde said, "Grant's family were more than just constituents, they were friends. This banner is one way for all Alaskans to honor Grant's memory and the service he performed for our country."

Senator Huggins presented Ms. Long with the Gold Star Banner. "Grant Fraser proudly served our nation by volunteering to join the fight in the war on terror. The Gold Star Banner is a time-honored way of expressing gratitude and thanks to his mother and family for their son's sacrifice in protecting freedom at home and abroad."

Also participating in the ceremony was Joshua Tempel, who served in Iraq with Lance Corporal Fraser. He read an excerpt from a piece written by Grant's cousin, Shawn Robinson, honoring the soldier. Joshua is currently working as a Legislative Aide for Senator Charlie Huggins.

Lance Corporal Fraser was from Echo Company 4th Recon Battalion (Elmendorf, AFB) attached to 3 Lima Co. while in Iraq. Grant was killed in action on August 3, 2005. He grew up in Anchorage and had just finished about 3 years of infantry, reconnaissance, and swim instructor training when he was deployed.

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