The service member killed on Thursday in Syria has been identified as Senior Chief Petty Officer Scott Cooper Dayton, an explosives specialist. Dayton was killed by an IED in northern Syria. He is the first American combat casualty in Syria in the fight against ISIS.
Sailor IDed who died Nov. 24 from IED wounds suffered in Syria: Senior Chief Petty Officer Scott Cooper Dayton.
— Jake Tapper (@jaketapper) November 25, 2016
RIP pic.twitter.com/7OaTQrI2io
Dayton entered the Navy in 1993 and had received 19 awards, including the Bronze Star. Statements by Rear Admiral Brian Brakke and Sec. of Defense Ash Carter mourned his passing.
“We offer our deepest condolences and sympathies to the family and friends of Senior Chief Petty Officer Scott Dayton, who made the ultimate sacrifice on a day we set aside time to give thanks for our freedom and to recognize the men and women who defend that right,” said Rear Adm. Brian Brakke, commander, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command.
“I am deeply saddened by the news on this Thanksgiving Day that one of our brave service members has been killed in Syria while protecting us from the evil of ISIL. It is a painful reminder of the dangers our men and women in uniform face around the world to keep us safe.”
There are about 300 American service members currently in Syria.