Kabul…A military helicopter is believed to have been shot down with the resultant loss of 31 US Troops and 7 Afgans. The following is a statement from Defense Secretary Leon Pannetta “I am deeply saddened by the loss of many outstanding Americans in uniform and of thei Arfghan counterparts earlier today in Afghanistan. Their courage was exemplary, as was their determination to make this a safer world for their countries and for their fellow citizens. We will stay the course to complete that mission, for which they and all who have served and lost their lives in Afghanistan have made the ultimate sacrifice. They and their families are in my thoughts, in my prayers and in my heart.”

Most of those that died were special forces troops. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families and friends.