Poughkeepsie…County Executive William R. Steinhaus has directed that all Dutchess County Government facility flags shall be set at half mast to honor Specialist Mark Palmateer of the New York Army National Guard, who was killed in action while serving in Afghanistan.     Palmateer, 38, was a resident of the Town of Poughkeepsie.

“Our prayers and condolences are with the family of the Specialist Palmateer,” stated County Executive Steinhaus.   “We will be forever grateful for his service to our country.”
 
Flags will remain at half mast until his funeral service has concluded.   Funeral plans have not yet been finalized.