Governor Sonny Perdue issued the following statement regarding the passing of General Raymond G. Davis, Sr.

Atlanta - "The State of Georgia has lost a native son, a true American hero, and a man of family and community. I express my sincere condolences to the family and friends of General Raymond Davis during this most difficult time. I join you in mourning the passing of my friend.

"General Davis' military career spanned World War II, the Korean War, and Vietnam. As a soldier, he defended his nation with valor. He received the Navy Cross for actions at Peleliu during World War II. In Korea, General Davis received the Medal of Honor from President Truman for his leadership of the 1st Marine Division's breakout from overwhelming numbers of Chinese forces at the Chosin Reservoir in North Korea.

"During the Vietnam War, General Davis was commanding general of the 3rd Marine Division and received his fourth star when he became Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corp. He served in this position until retiring from active duty in 1972.

"After serving his nation with distinction, General Davis came back home to serve the people of Georgia by leading the Georgia Chamber of Commerce. Through the years, he continued to serve Georgia and his community. I was honored to have had the General as a leader during my campaign and an advisor in my administration.

"In May, he was nominated for the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation's highest civilian award recognizing exceptional meritorious service. I can think of no person more deserving and worthy of this recognition, and I look forward to this award being presented to his family in honor of his life and service to our nation.

"General Davis' love of country, his love of Georgia, and his love of family, friends and community should serve as an example to us all. He willingly put his life on the line, again and again, to defend the American values of family, faith and freedom. The Lord has now called him home. He has finished the race of life and his reward is eternal."

General Davis is survived by his wife Knox, two sons, one daughter, and seven grandchildren. The Governor will order flags to be flown at half staff on the day of his funeral.