Death – Obituary – Accident and Crime News : PENSACOLA, Fla. (WALA) – On December 6, 2019, tragedy struck the Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola when a deadly terrorist attack claimed the lives of three servicemembers and left eight others injured. As the four-year anniversary of this horrific incident approaches, the scars left by that fateful day still remain.
The Escambia County Florida Sheriff’s Office recently released dash cam footage, captured two years ago, showcasing the heroic acts of first responders who rushed to the scene. This footage revealed the incredible bravery displayed by these individuals in the face of danger.
The attack was carried out by a Saudi aviation student, who opened fire and took the lives of 23-year-old Joshua Watson from Enterprise, 19-year-old Mohammed Haitham from Florida, and 21-year-old Cameron Walters from Georgia. However, law enforcement swiftly engaged the assailant in a gun battle, ultimately neutralizing the threat. The FBI later identified the attacker as a self-radicalized member of Al-Qaeda.
One particularly remarkable moment captured in the footage showed a deputy who had been shot, yet remained resolute in his determination to prioritize the safety of those on the base. This act of selflessness exemplified the unwavering commitment of the brave men and women from the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office.
Former ECSO sheriff, David Morgan, expressed his immense pride in the actions of his colleagues, stating, “They ran to the fight, not from the fight. Even though they knew there was an active shooter, and again the chances of putting your life in danger is great, guess where they went? They went inside.”
In a bid to hold Saudi Arabia accountable for the attack, US Congressman Matt Gaetz of Florida introduced a bill on Wednesday. The proposed legislation aims to provide financial support to the families of the victims, ensuring they receive the assistance they deserve.
As the community reflects on the tragic events of that December day, it serves as a reminder of the bravery exhibited in the face of unimaginable adversity. The heroes who responded to the NAS Pensacola attack demonstrated that, even in the darkest of times, the spirit of courage and selflessness can prevail.