FBI Mourns Loss Of Two Special Agents Killed In Training

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is mourning the loss of two special agents who were killed on May 17, 2013 during a training exercise off the coast of Virginia Beach, VA. Special Agent Christopher Lorek and Special Agent Stephen Shaw were both members of the FBI’s elite Hostage Rescue Team, which is part of the FBI Critical Incident Response Group (CIRG) based at Quantico, VA. The FBI’s elite Hostage Rescue Team is often an Americans’ last chance at survival when they are victimized and held hostage by violent criminals or terrorists. Only the best of the best can be a member of the team, and their character must be deemed impeccable.

The FBI press release only says both Lorek and Shaw were killed in training and that the cause of the incident is under review, though generally offshore exercises by the FBI's Hostage Rescue Team involve drills practicing rapelling from helicopters and boarding ships. The press release quotes FBI Director Robert S. Mueller as saying: “We mourn the loss of two brave and courageous men. Like all who serve on the Hostage Rescue Team, they accept the highest risk each and every day, when training and on operational missions, to keep our nation safe. Our hearts are with their wives, children, and other loved ones who feel their loss most deeply. And they will always be part of the FBI Family.”

According to the press release, Special Agent Lorek was 41 years old and is survived by his wife and two daughters, ages 11 and 8. Special Agent Shaw was 40 years old and is survived by his wife; a daughter, age 3; and a son, age 1. The families of Special Agents serving on the Hostage Rescue Team are known to sacrifice greatly, and the families of these men have paid the highest cost for both their and their loved ones' service to our nation.

Originally posted on Breitbart.com.