UPDATED: Statement of Governor Bob McDonnell on American Fatalities in Afghanistan

Today in Afghanistan, 31 U.S. military personnel were killed when a helicopter was shot down by Taliban insurgents.  Among those killed were 25 Navy SEALs from Team 6, the unit that killed Osama bin Laden, which is based in Virginia Beach.

Here is the statement of Governor Bob McDonnell on this heartbreaking tragedy:

“Maureen and I are both heartbroken over the news of the loss of 31 American military members in eastern Afghanistan. They died serving their nation, and defending the cause of freedom and liberty. We know that freedom is not free; it has never been, and never will be. Every day, brave Americans are on the front lines in dangerous locations around the world. While we carry on our daily activities here at home, these men and women suffer greatly, give much and, all too often, sacrifice all to protect this nation that we love. Virginia has long had a special relationship with the United States military. We are home to major military facilities which are an integral part of the culture and life of our Commonwealth. When news such as this comes across our televisions, Virginians know it is not a distant matter. It often means mourning in our cities and our neighborhoods; we watch as it touches our friends and our families. At this time of trying and pain, our thoughts and prayers are with those who were lost, and the loved ones they have left behind. God bless the brave Americans who have left us. God Bless their families and friends. And may God continue to always bless America.”

Update from Rep. Scott Rigell:

“We awoke this morning to the devastating news that 31 American service members died when their helicopter crashed in eastern Afghanistan. This was a ‘Joint and Combined Team’ with US Army, US Navy, and Afghan Security elements.

“Though details are still forthcoming, we now know that this profound burden has fallen on families in Hampton Roads. With reverence and heavy hearts we pay respectful tribute to their loved ones — those who served at the tip of the spear in defense of freedom.

“President Franklin Roosevelt prayed this prayer with the American people on D-Day, and I believe it captures the profound sense of loss now blanketing our community:

“…Some will never return. Embrace these, Father, and receive them, Thy heroic servants, into Thy kingdom. And for us at home — fathers, mothers, children, wives, sisters, and brothers of brave men overseas — whose thoughts and prayers are ever with them — help us, Almighty God, to rededicate ourselves in renewed faith in Thee in this hour of great sacrifice.”

“Mindful of the duty we have to the families who are now suffering so greatly, and respectful of their desire for privacy, my staff and I stand ready to assist them in any way we can.

“Teri joins me in this sad hour in extending our deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathy to the families of those who gave the full measure of sacrifice. May God grant them a special measure of comfort at this hour and in the difficult days ahead.”

Update from Virginia Beach Mayor Will Sessoms:

All flags at Virginia Beach municipal facilities will be flown at half staff starting Sunday morning until Monday evening in honor of those who lost their lives after an insurgent attack on an American military helicopter in Afghanistan.

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About the author

Ken Falkenstein

Ken Falkenstein has been a staffer in the United States Senate and the Virginia House of Delegates. He has managed political campaigns. He was a military intelligence analyst in the U.S. Army in West Germany during the Cold War. He is currently a civil litigation attorney with Poole Mahoney, P.C. in Virginia Beach. But his concern for his kids' future is what most informs his writing.