On the fourth anniversary of the terrorist attack at Abbey Gate on August 26, 2021, the Department of Defense pauses to honor the 13 brave U.S. service members who made the ultimate sacrifice during the U.S. military's withdrawal from Afghanistan. These heroes, selfless warriors who stood guard amidst chaos, lost their lives in a suicide bombing that also claimed approximately 170 Afghan civilians. Their valor and dedication to duty will forever inspire our nation, and we extend our deepest respect and gratitude to their families, whose enduring pain fuels our resolve to seek justice and truth.
Under the leadership of Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, the Special Review Panel at the Department continues its vital work to investigate the botched withdrawal, ensuring that the pursuit of accountability and transparency does not waver. While the review is ongoing, the effort to uncover the full truth behind the decisions made during this period has not stopped and will not stop until every aspect is examined and those responsible are held to account.
"Justice for the families of the 13 fallen service members is an essential priority," said Secretary Hegseth. "Their sacrifice is the driving force behind this panel's mission. We owe it to them, to the American people, and to all who wear the uniform to comb through every detail of what happened, delivering full accountability and restoring trust."
The panel, convened at the direction of Secretary Hegseth and President Trump, is pledged to full transparency regarding the Biden administration's handling of the withdrawal, a debacle that resulted in billions of dollars in lost equipment, needless casualties, and one of America's darkest moments in the region. Led by Assistant to the Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs and Senior Advisor Sean Parnell, the panel includes former Lt. Col. Stuart Scheller, who courageously demanded accountability during the Afghanistan withdrawal and faced reprisals under the previous administration, and other experts dedicated to this cause. Updates will be provided as findings emerge and we will remain committed to keeping the public informed.