The following is the statement of President Obama on casualties in Afghanistan, as provided by the White House:
"My thoughts and prayers go out to the families and loved ones of the Americans who were lost earlier today in Afghanistan. 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.
"We will draw inspiration from their lives, and continue the work of securing our country and standing up for the values that they embodied. We also mourn the Afghans who died alongside our troops in pursuit of a more peaceful and hopeful future for their country.
"At this difficult hour, all Americans are united in support of our men and women in uniform who serve so that we can live in freedom and security."
MORE COVERAGE: NationalJournal.com
ANALYSIS: Deadly crash bound to sap support for already unpopular war
Get the latest news and analysis delivered to your inbox. Sign up for National Journal's morning alert, Wake-Up Call, and afternoon newsletter, The Edge. Subscribe here.
Leave A Comment