The identification of the remains of Capt. Michael Scott Speicher, an American Navy pilot shot down in the opening days of the first Gulf War nearly two decades ago, reminds us how much we owe to those who make the ultimate sacrifice, and to their families, who will carry with them a heartache for the rest of their lives. We are also reminded that those who wear the uniform have a special bond and sense of responsibility for each other for which we should all be proud:
“Our Navy will never give up looking for a shipmate, regardless of how long or how difficult that search may be,” said Adm. Gary Roughead, chief of naval operations, in a statement. “We owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to Captain Speicher and his family for the sacrifice they have made for our nation and the example of strength they have set for all of us.”
Our thoughts, sympathy, prayers and best wishes are with the Speicher family.