You aren’t going to read about losses of life from conventional units. But, Special Forces and SOF are in danger and always will be. This past week has been heartbreaking. Six Special Forces soldiers have lost their lives. Our deepest condolences go out to their families. This is a sad week for the regiment.

It reminds us that SOF is always in danger and there is an eternal war that goes unnoticed by most. The world is a dangerous place and service, and at times of war, SF is essential. The reality is there is no true peace time – and with the advent of modern terrorism, no escape. It’s deeply saddening at the recent significant loss of life from the Regiment. It’s a time of mourning.

I don’t know what to say, except that I am terribly sorry for their families’ loss. Here is a review of the sad loss of life.

Staff Sgt. David Whitcher dies during dive training:

“A Fort Bragg-based soldier died during a dive training exercise off the coast of Florida on Wednesday, according to U.S. Army Special Operations Command’s Facebook page.

Staff Sgt. David Whitcher, of New Hampshire, was in the Combat Diver Qualification Course and assigned to C Company, 2nd Battalion, 1st Special Warfare Training Group at the U.S. Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School in North Carolina.

The incident occurred off of Key West, Florida.

“Our primary focus right now is to care for his loved ones,” said Col. Michael Ball, commander of 7th Special Forces Group, in the Facebook post. “As always, we will take care of our own and help his family in their time of need.””

Two Green Berets, Capt. Andrew Byers and SFC Ryan Gloyer die in Afghan battle:

“DoD identifies two Green Berets killed in deadly Afghan battle. The Defense Department on Friday released the names of two soldiers killed in Afghanistan. Capt. Andrew Byers and Sgt. 1st Class Ryan Gloyer died Thursday in Kunduz, Afghanistan, from wounds sustained while engaging enemy forces.”

Three Green Berets die in Jordan outside gates of Al-Jafr:

“The Fort Campbell, Kentucky-based soldiers — Staff Sgt. Matthew Lewellen, Staff Sgt. Kevin McEnroe and Staff Sgt. James Moriarty — died Friday after they reportedly came under fire while entering a Jordanian military base. The incident is still under investigation.”

This incident is currently an unknown in its entirety. However, a New York Times article, well written, airs the grievances for the family and raises concern. Whatever the case, these men died as heroes. All six casualties had stepped up to serve their country. They deserve a moment of silence in your lives and a reflection on those who go forward. Their work transcends politics.

Featured image courtesy of Task Force Dagger.