August 3, 2020 - Issue: Vol. 166, No. 137 — Daily Edition116th Congress (2019 - 2020) - 2nd Session

[Page S4653]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       HONORING OUR ARMED FORCES

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                        THE NAVY-MARINES TRAGEDY

  Mr. McCONNELL. Mr. President, the Senate mourns the tragedy that we 
now know took place Thursday, off the coast of Southern California.
  According to official reports, nine American servicemembers--eight 
marines and one sailor--died during a training exercise. These young 
servicemembers were all between the ages of 19 and 23. It is absolutely 
heartbreaking. The units involved are among our most unique and 
specialized amphibious forces. Their training is what allows them to 
deploy at a moment's notice, under the harshest conditions, in the most 
remote and unsupported locations.
  As the search for survivors turned into a recovery mission, the 
Nation was reminded that even what our men and women in uniform may 
consider to be routine still involves serious risk and personal 
sacrifice.
  I extend the Senate's sympathies to the families of those lost and 
our gratitude to the Marine Corps, Navy, and Coast Guard personnel who 
are searching to bring their comrades home.

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