During my trip to Asia, I have been constantly updated on the situation at Fort Hood. I am deeply saddened by the loss of nine brave soldiers in this training accident. This tragedy has touched the 1st Cavalry Division, the Fort Hood community, and the entire Department of Defense. It painfully demonstrates, along with the loss of a Blue Angels ‎pilot this week, the risks our men and women in uniform take on behalf of the American people everyday.

I am immensely grateful for the efforts of the military and civilian personnel who responded to the Fort Hood incident, and for the safe recovery of three soldiers.  We will learn from this incident  and do what we can to prevent something like this from happening again.

To the families, friends and team mates of those lost, an entire nation extends its thoughts and prayers. Though no words can compensate‎ for such a painful and sudden loss, please know that our hearts are joined with yours in grief.