General Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, addressed the media today regarding the fatal crash of a KC-135 refueling aircraft in Iraq. Speaking at a Pentagon briefing, Caine confirmed that six airmen were killed in the incident, which took place during a combat mission.
The crash occurred yesterday in western Iraq. Caine noted that the plane was flying over friendly territory and that “the incident… was not the result of hostile or friendly fire.”
While the crew was on a combat mission, the loss is currently being treated as an active rescue and recovery operation.
“Four airmen have been recovered, and the Air Force and US Central Command will provide updates as information becomes available,” Caine said. He asked for the public to keep the families and units of the service members in their thoughts as they navigate the aftermath of the tragedy.
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Reflecting on the risks faced by the military, Caine remarked, “Our service members make an incredible sacrifice to go forward and do the things that the nation asks of them. It’s a reminder of the true cost of the dedication and commitment of the joint force.”
In addition to the crash, the General briefly mentioned a fire aboard the USS Gerald R. Ford. He stated that injuries were reported but expressed hope that those affected would be okay, referring further inquiries to the Navy.
Additional details regarding the cause of the KC-135 crash are expected as the Central Command investigation moves forward.
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