SEAL Team 6 Member Killed In Afghanistan During Rescue Of US Doctor

A member of Navy SEAL Team Six, the same group that infiltrated Osama bin Laden’s compound, was killed this weekend in Afghanistan during a rescue mission of an American doctor captured by the Taliban outside of Kabul five days ago.

A US official confirmed the death of Petty Officer 1st Class Nicolas Checque to Fox News earlier today. Checque, 28, of Monroeville, Pennsylvania, died from combat-related injuries suffered on December 8 during the rescue operation. President Barack Obama praised the special forces on Sunday, saying that the successful rescue of Dr. Dilip Joseph of Colorado Springs, Colorado, was characteristic of the “extraordinary courage, skill and patriotism,” of our troops.

“He gave his life for his fellow Americans, and he and his teammates remind us once more of the selfless service that allows our nation to stay strong, safe and free,” Obama said in a statement.

In a separate statement Sunday, Defense Secretary Leon Panetta said, “In this fallen hero, and all of our special operators, Americans see the highest ideals of citizenship, sacrifice and service upheld.”

General John Allen, the top commander of US forces in Afghanistan, said the joint force between US and Afghan groups planned, rehearsed and successfully conducted the operation. The coalition collected intel from multiple sources, allowing them to pinpoint Dr. Joseph’s location and those responsible for his capture.

“Thanks to them, Dr. Joseph will soon be rejoining his family and loved ones,” Allen said.

We extend our condolences to the family of Petty Officer 1st Class Nicolas Checque, whose heroic sacrifice is an inspiration to us all.