Washington, D.C. (7/26/23) – Following disturbing reports that the Roseville family of Marine Corps Sgt Nicole Gee was asked to pay a staggering $60,000 to transport the remains of their daughter to their final resting place in Arlington, Rep. Kiley sent a letter to Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin seeking answers.

“Reports that Sgt. Gee’s family was forced to seek outside help to pay for the transport of her remains fails to live up to the expectations Americans have for how their fallen warriors and families will be treated. Congress, and the constituents I represent, expect an explanation of how this apparent travesty could occur and what steps your department will take to prevent something like this from happening to any other family in the future. Gold Star families have given too much to be treated so poorly.” – Congressman Kevin Kiley (CA-03)

Background: In August 2021, Marine Corps Sergeant Nicole Gee, a Roseville native, was killed while serving on active duty in Afghanistan. Gee was tasked with facilitating the evacuation of women and children from the country. Respected and loved by all who knew her, Sgt. Gee represented the best of America.

Following Gee’s passing, the Department of Defense originally transported her remains to Roseville, however, a nonprofit that assists Gold Star families, Honoring Our Fallen, covered the transportation of Gee to Arlington.

Rep. Kiley is now seeking answers from Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin on how these matters are handled and assuring that Gold Star families are given the greatest measure of support. You can read a copy of that letter here.