By: Donovan Klein – 21Alive; Eric Dutkiewicz -21Alive
On December 16, the Navy announced that the Purple Heart will be awarded to the four Marines and one Sailor who were killed and the Marine who was injured at the July 16 attack in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
Marine Gunnery Sgt. Thomas Sullivan, Lance Cpl. Squire Wells, Staff Sgt. David Wyatt and Sgt. Carson Holmquist were shot and killed in the attack on the at Navy Operational Support Center Chattanooga on July 16.
U.S. Navy Logistics Specialist 2nd Class Randall Smith of Paulding, Ohio, died of his injuries days later.
Ray Mabus, Secretary of the Navy, announced the news and said that after investigation the FBI and NCIS determined that the attack was inspired by a foreign terrorist group.
Mabus also said:
“Although the Purple Heart can never possibly replace this brave Sailor and these brave Marines, it is my hope that as their families and the entire Department of the Navy team continue to mourn their loss, these awards provide some small measure of solace. Their heroism and service to our nation will be remembered always.”
This story was originally written and published for 21Alive News.
