From the Blog

Orders all State Flags to Fly at Half Staff Friday; Encourages Virginians to Also Fly Flags at Half Staff and Donate to Military Service Charities

“While details surrounding the helicopter tragedy over the weekend are still being investigated, the human impact of the loss of these servicemen upon their families, their units, and the Virginia military community are profound,” Governor McDonnell said. “It is with a heavy heart that I ask all Virginians to join me in a day of mourning and remembrance for those who lost their lives defending our country and to offer their support and thanks to the families and military community they left behind. While no show of gratitude can ever replace what was lost during this tragedy, it is in times like these that Virginians need to rally to offer the care and support that can make a difference in the lives of all those touched by the tragedy.”

Secretary of Veterans Affairs and Homeland Security Terrie Suit added, “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families of the heroic warriors who selflessly gave their lives in service to our country this past weekend. I urge our citizens to consider making a donation, no matter how large or small, to help the family members left behind.”

The mission of the Navy SEAL Foundation is to provide immediate and ongoing support and assistance to the Naval Special Warfare (NSW) community and their families. The Navy SEAL Foundation has three core areas of support: supporting families by easing their burden when an active-duty member of the NSW community is injured or killed in action; providing spouses and their children scholarship programs and other educational assistance; and, making sure that the extraordinary contributions made in defense of our freedoms by members of the NSW community are remembered.