The Navy on Thursday announced it had posthumously promoted the SEAL who died after an al Qaeda raid in Yemen this week.
According to a statement, William “Ryan” Owens has been promoted to senior chief petty officer, effective on Sunday, the day of his death.
Owens, 36, died after the commando raid targeting members of al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula.
“Owens was eligible for the fiscal year 18 active duty Senior Chief Petty Officer Selection Board, which will convene in April,” the Navy statement said.
The raid was ordered by President Trump, and it’s the first military fatality under the new administration. Trump traveled to Dover Air Force Base, Delaware, on Wednesday to greet the body during a “dignified transfer of remains.”
