President Obama offered condolences to the families of 12 Marines who died when their helicopters crashed off the coast of Hawaii during a training exercise on Jan. 14, as mourners gathered Friday to pay tribute to the dozen servicemen.
“Communities from coast-to-coast are mourning these Marines, and our nation is forever grateful for their patriotism, service and sacrifice,” Obama stated. “As we mourn this loss, we are reminded of the sacrifice men and women of our Armed Forces make each day for the freedom and security of their fellow Americans. The willingness of our troops to complete dangerous training to prepare for any mission our nation asks of them will not be forgotten.”
“The spirit of our missing Marines was reflected in the actions of the many dozens of service members and others in Hawaii who searched day-and-night for the downed helicopters,” Obama added.
A memorial service was held Friday at the Marine base in Kaneohe, Hawaii on Friday.
The 12 Marines were all decorated members of the Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 463, Marine Aircraft Group 24, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing stationed in Hawaii.
