BAINBRIDGE, OH – Today, Congressman Dave Joyce (OH-14) released the following statement after the deaths of American servicemembers resulting from suicide bombing attacks in Kabul. As of the time this statement was issued, the Pentagon had confirmed the deaths of 12 U.S. servicemembers and the injury of 15 others, making today the deadliest day for U.S. forces in Afghanistan in over a decade. Total casualties of the attacks have surpassed 85.

“My heart breaks for the families of our soldiers killed in today’s cowardly acts of terror. Theses heroes made the ultimate sacrifice protecting their fellow Americans and our vulnerable Afghan allies attempting to flee the Taliban in the wake of the President’s disastrously mismanaged withdrawal. Their deaths leave parents without children, children without parents, and spouses without their loved ones. United, our nation weeps for them.

“Like many Americans, I am enraged at this senseless and preventable loss of life. Decisive action must be taken immediately not only to protect our troops, our citizens, and our allies, but also to hold those responsible for this tragedy accountable. It’s past time to unleash the full force of the United States military and bring every American home safely. The United States does not bow to the will of terrorists.

“As we learn more in the wake of these unspeakable acts of evil, please join me in praying for our fallen soldiers, their grieving families, and all those whose safety remains under threat in Afghanistan.”

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