The Department of Defense announced today the death of a U.S. Navy sailor who was supporting U.S. Central Command Operations.
Chief Special Warfare Operator William “Ryan” Owens, 36, of Peoria, Illinois, died Jan. 28 in the Arabian Peninsula of Yemen, of wounds sustained in a raid against al-Qaida.
He was assigned to an East Coast based Special Warfare unit.
Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis released the following statement:
I extend my condolences to the family and shipmates of Chief Petty Officer William “Ryan” Owens.
Ryan gave his full measure for our nation, and in performing his duty, he upheld the noblest standard of military service. The United States would not long exist were it not for the selfless commitment of such warriors.
I thank our gallant troops and their families for their dedication to protecting this nation, and I pass our respects to Ryan’s family in this most difficult time.
SOURCE: U.S. Naval Special Warfare Command Public Affairs