A former Army Ranger who worked to aid victims of the conflict in Syria sought to make a difference, Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel said last night, condemning the “ruthless barbarity” of his murder at the hands of Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists.
In a statement he issued on behalf of all men and women of the Defense Department, Hagel extended condolences to the family of Abdul-Rahman Kassig, also known as Peter Kassig, whose beheading was shown in a video ISIL released via social media.
“[Kassig] time and again volunteered his service during times of war -- first as an Army Ranger in Iraq, and later as a devoted humanitarian, providing aid to victims of the conflict in Syria,” Hagel said. “Like his fellow veterans of the 9/11 generation, his strong desire to continue making a difference in the world after serving in uniform -- to continue leading a life of purpose -- is an inspiration to us all.”
The murder is one more reminder of ISIL’s “ruthless barbarity,” the secretary said. “There is no starker contrast between the inhumanity of ISIL and the bright and generous spirit of the young man they murdered,” he added. “As we join his loved ones in mourning his loss, we also celebrate his service, and we celebrate his commitment -- a lifetime commitment to, as he said, ‘stand beside those who might need a helping hand.’”