Armed Forces News

Chief Special Warfare Operator William “Ryan” Owens, 36, of Peoria, Ill., died Jan. 28 during combat operations in Yemen. Owens was taking part in a raid against al-Qaida in support of U.S. Central Command operations, according to a Pentagon announcement. He was attached to “an East Coast-based special warfare unit,” the Pentagon stated. Owens became the first U.S. service member to be killed in action since President Trump took office. “Ryan gave his full measure for our nation, and in performing his duty, he upheld the noblest standard of military service,” Defense Secretary James Mattis said.