09 February 1998
(Marine Corps F/A-18 pilot lost his life in Persian Gulf) (280) Washington -- President Clinton says the thoughts and prayers of all Americans are with the loved ones of Lieutenant Colonel Henry G. Van Winkle II, a Marine Corps F/A-18 pilot who lost his life in the skies over the Persian Gulf February 6. Lieutenant Colonel Van Winkle was there "as part of America's commitment to back up our determined diplomacy with force as we work to prevent Saddam Hussein from threatening the world with weapons of mass destruction," Clinton said. Following is the White House text: (begin text) THE WHITE HOUSE Office of the Press Secretary February 7, 1998 Accident Involving U.S. Aircraft in the Gulf Defending America's interests is difficult, dangerous work -- and our men and women in uniform bear that burden every day. Nowhere is their service more important than in the Persian Gulf. I was saddened to learn that one of our Marine Corps F/A-18 pilots, Lieutenant Colonel Henry G. Van Winkle II, lost his life yesterday in the skies over the Persian Gulf. Lieutenant Colonel Van Winkle was there as part of America's commitment to back up our determined diplomacy with force as we work to prevent Saddam Hussein from threatening the world with weapons of mass destruction. Our thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones -- and with all our men and women in uniform around the world as they serve and sacrifice every day to keep Americans safe and America strong. (end text)