Statement by Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel on Romanian Helicopter Crash
November 21, 2014

On behalf of the Department of Defense, I offer my deepest condolences to the families of the eight Romanian service members who lost their lives in a helicopter crash earlier today while en route to a joint exercise with U.S. forces. Since joining NATO a decade ago, Romania has been a stalwart ally and partner of the United States, and the American military deeply appreciates the dedication and sacrifices of Romanian troops who have served alongside U.S. forces in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Europe. As we mourn this loss, we reaffirm our commitment to defending our shared interests and values, and to strengthening our collective defense. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the fallen, their loved ones, and the Romanian people.