William Bryan: “I rise today because of strong concerns I have related to the Air Force's evaluation of the events surrounding the…”

“I rise today because of strong concerns I have related to the Air Force's evaluation of the events surrounding the tragic Khobar Towers bombing in Saudi Arabia. The Air Force has not yet released its official report on these events, but it has been widely reported that the Air Force will recommend no disciplinary action against any officer in relation to this incident. Mr. President, I do not understand this recommendation. As you will recall, shortly before 10 p.m. on the evening of Tuesday, June 25, 1996, a fuel truck pulled up to the perimeter of a Khobar Towers' complex in Dharan, Saudi Arabia. This complex housed almost 3,000 airmen of the 4404th Wing, as well as military personnel from the United Kingdom, France, and Saudi Arabia. Air Force guards spotted the truck and immediately began an effort to evacuate the building. Unfortunately, before they could succeed, a large explosion occurred that destroyed the face of Building 131, killing 19 American servicemembers and seriously injuring hundreds more. In the immediate aftermath of the explosion the members of our Armed Forces acted heroically, restoring order and providing aid to those who had been injured. In less than 3 days the 4404th Air Wing had recovered and was once again flying its mission over the skies of southern Iraq.”