State flags are being flown at half staff today in honor of Chief Warrant Officer 2 Edward Balli, a soldier from Kapolei who was killed in an insurgent attack in Kandahar Province, Afghanistan on Jan. 20.

Funeral services are being held at Schofield Barracks this morning for Balli, who will be buried with full military honors at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific at Punchbowl, following the Schofield service.

Balli, 42, was assigned to the 2nd Calvary Regiment out of Vilseck, Germany and was an unmanned aerial system operations officer platoon leader, roving the eyes in the sky for soldiers on the ground.

"Edward was valued by his fellow ‘Dragons’ as much for his kindness as his strength of leadership," Gov. Abercrombie said. "We extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to his family and friends."

Balli is survived by wife Kristy, stepdaughters Momilani Morales and Desirae Abrera and stepson Michael Donios.