Rachel and Charity Witmer won't be returning to Iraq. They'll be requesting a different assignment away from the war zone.
Lt. Col. Tim Donovan said there's no special treatment going on here, just two brave soldiers whose option to be re-assigned away from the violence is the same as any other in their situation would have.
During an afternoon news conference in Madison, a family friend read a statement from the sisters. In it they said they refuse to increase the chances their fellow soldiers have of suffering harm.
Spc. Michelle Witmer of New Berlin was killed April 9 while serving in Iraq. Her sister Rachel was serving in the same unit as Michelle.
Meanwhile, Governor Jim Doyle said he supports Rachel and Charity's decision. He also said their continued service speaks volumes about their character, and their commitment to their country.
