Army specialist Nathan Cox, 27, was mortally wounded a week ago, when insurgents attacked his unit at a forward operating base near Kandahar.
He died last Wednesday.
Cox joined the Army in 2004. He was a combat medic with the 101st Airborne Division.
Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger released a statement about Cox's death this afternoon.
"Maria and I were deeply saddened to learn of the dead of Specialist Nathan Cox," Schwarzenegger said. "His courage and selfless dedication to this country will be remembered forever. On behalf of all Californians, we send our condolences to Nathan's family, friends and fellow soldiers as they mourn this terrible loss."
Flags at the Capitol will be flown at half-staff in Cox's honor.
Bay City News contributed to this report
