Air Force officials respond to Khobar Towers indictments

06/21/01 - WASHINGTON (AFPN) -- Air Force officials are very pleased with the announcement of indictments against 14 terrorists thought to be responsible for the Khobar Towers bombing five years ago.

"The Air Force lost 19 dedicated airmen in addition to hundreds who were wounded in this cowardly attack by terrorists," said Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Mike Ryan. "As an expeditionary air force, we operate in harm's way on a global basis every day. These indictments send the message to all terrorists that they will be hunted down and will pay for their crimes."

The general also expressed his sincere condolences to all the families affected by this egregious act.

"Their loved ones have not been forgotten. The legacy of these individuals lives on every day with the men and women of their units and the entire United States Air Force," he said.