Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin issued the following statement upon news of a New Jersey soldier who was killed in action while serving in Afghanistan. Sgt. 1st Class Michael Goble of Washington Township, Bergen County was injured Sunday and tragically passed away Monday:
“I can’t imagine the pain Sgt. 1st Class Michael Goble’s family, friends and fellow soldiers must be feeling right now. There is nothing more tragic than the sudden loss of a loved one, especially during a time when families gather to celebrate the holidays.
“I want to extend my deepest sympathies to those who knew him, and recognize his selfless service to our country. He courageously chose to defend his fellow Americans by serving with the Special Forces for more than 15 years.
“Our state and our country owe him a debt of gratitude for the sacrifice he made. He was a true hero.”