Statement on the Crash of a United States Air Force C-130J Aircraft in Jalalabad, Afghanistan

Michelle and I extend our deepest condolences and sympathies to the families of the six U.S. airmen and five contractors who lost their lives in a military plane crash in Jalalabad, Afghanistan, yesterday. In addition to the Americans we mourn, we also are saddened that Afghan civilians lost their lives in this incident. As we mark this terrible loss of life, we are reminded of the sacrifice brave Americans and our Afghan partners make each and every day in the name of freedom and security. Their willingness to serve so selflessly will not be forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims' families and loved ones during this difficult hour. May God bless their souls.