US officials tell the Associated Press that they believe none of the Navy SEALs who died in today's helicopter crash in Afghanistan had participated in the raid that killed Osama bin Laden, although they were from the same unit that carried out the bin Laden mission. In all, 30 Americans (the number has come down one since morning) and seven Afghan Army troops were killed in the crash. A source says the victims were thought to include 22 SEALs, three Air Force air controllers, the Afghan Army troops, a dog and his handler, and a civilian interpreter, plus the helicopter crew.
"Their deaths are a reminder of the extraordinary sacrifices made by the men and women of our military and their families, including all who have served in Afghanistan," said President Obama. "We will draw inspiration from their lives, and continue the work of securing our country and standing up for the values that they embodied." The Taliban has claimed credit for shooting down the chopper in eastern Afghanistan. If the numbers are right, it's the deadliest day of the war for the US. (More Navy SEALs stories.)
,
uBlock 
,
and
Ghostery 
)
