Two missing US Navy SEALs have been pronounced dead after an extensive 10-day search for their whereabouts.
The search began after Special Warfare Operator 1st Class Christopher J. Chambers and Special Warfare Operator 2nd Class Nathan Gage Ingram were reported missing on Jan. 11. According to a press release, the men were assisting in a nighttime raid on a ship illegally transporting advanced lethal aid from Iran to supply Houthi forces in Yemen.
Air and naval platforms from the US, Japan and Spain searched more than 21,000 square miles before the search ended on Sunday.
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Picture of a Navy SEALS pushing a boat in the water.
Greg Mathieson/Mai/Getty
While the investigation into the incident is ongoing, The New York Times reported that one of the two men fell into the ocean while climbing the boarding ladder and the other jumped into the water to rescue him.
Chambers, 37, and Ingram, 27, “quickly got lost in the waves,” the paper said. The rest of the SEALs continued the mission and were able to seize “Iranian-made ballistic and cruise missile parts and warheads,” according to ABC News.
Chambers and Ingram were assigned to SEAL Team 3 based in Coronado, California. They are remembered as “exceptional warriors, valued teammates and dear friends to many within the Naval Special Warfare community,” Capt. Blake L. Chaney, commander of Naval Special Warfare Group 1, said in a statement after their identities were released Monday. .
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“Our condolences go out to the families, friends and teammates of Chris and Gage at this incredibly challenging time,” he added.
Chaney said Chambers and Ingram “selflessly served their country with unwavering professionalism and exceptional ability.”
Chambers enlisted in the Navy on May 17, 2012. During his service, he earned awards and decorations that include the Navy/Marine Corps Achievement Medal with Combat “C”, three Navy/Marine Corps Achievement Medals, the Army Achievement Medal and the Combat Action Ribbon . Like Chambers, Ingram received many personal and unit awards after enlisting in the Navy on Sept. 25, 2019.
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“These SEALS represented the best of our country, giving their lives to protect their fellow Americans. Our hearts go out to the family members, loved ones, friends and fellow travelers grieving for these two brave Americans. Our entire country stands with them. You never we will not fail to honor their service, their legacy and their sacrifice,” President Joe Biden said in a statement.
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Source: HIS Education