12 September 2000: A Day of Infamy
The USS Cole Bombing
On 12 September 2000, a day that will be remembered for years to come, the United States Navy's guided-missile destroyer USS Cole (DDG-67) was attacked while refueling in Aden, Yemen. The devastating bombing claimed the lives of 17 American sailors and injured 39 others.
The Attack
At approximately 11:15 a.m. local time, a small boat approached the USS Cole and exploded, causing a massive blast that ripped through the ship's portside. The explosion was so powerful that it blew a 40-foot hole in the ship's hull, causing widespread damage and flooding.
The Aftermath
The attack on the USS Cole sent shockwaves around the world, and it marked a significant escalation in the global war on terror. The incident was widely condemned by governments and leaders from around the world, and it led to a significant increase in security measures for U.S. naval vessels and personnel.
Investigation and Responsibility
The FBI led the investigation into the bombing, and it was later determined that the attack was carried out by al-Qaeda, a terrorist organization led by Osama bin Laden. The attack was planned and executed by a group of al-Qaeda operatives, including Abd al-Rahim al-Nashiri, who was later captured and tried for his role in the bombing.
Remembering the Victims
The 17 American sailors who lost their lives in the USS Cole bombing were:
- Electronic Warfare Technician 3rd Class Kevin S. Rux
- Petty Officer 3rd Class Ronald S. Owens
- Seaman Apprentice Craig B. Claxton
- Fireman Apprentice Lakeina M. Francis
- Fireman Joshua L. Pengel
- Engineman Fireman Gary G. Swenchonis Jr.
- Signalman Seaman Apprentice Cherone L. Gunn
- Seaman Apprentice Timothy L. Gauna
- Seaman Apprentice James D. Ladner
- Seaman Apprentice Gary M. Wright Jr.
- Seaman John D. Newland
- Seaman James R. McDaniels
- Seaman Eric D. Chen
- Seaman Andrew Triplett
- Seaman Joshua S. Wise
Their sacrifice will never be forgotten, and their memories will live on in the hearts of their families, friends, and fellow Americans.
12 September 2000: A Day of Infamy
The USS Cole bombing on 12 September 2000 was a pivotal moment in modern history, marking a significant escalation in the global war on terror. It was a brutal reminder of the dangers faced by the men and women who serve in the United States military, and it will always be remembered as a day of infamy.
