PRESS RELEASES
Ambassador Wilson Expresses Gratitude to the Turkish Nation
Ankara, July 11, 2008
On behalf of the U.S. Mission in Turkey, I want to acknowledge the bravery and dedication of the Turkish police who defended us so heroically in the terrorist attack on the U.S. Consulate General in Istanbul on Wednesday, July 9. Three of them, Nedim Çalık, Mehmet Önder Saçmalıoğlu, and Erdal Öztaş, gave their lives and we remember them today as they are being laid to rest. We deeply regret the loss of Turkish lives in this senseless attack and our hearts go out to their families. Two others were injured in the attack and we extend our best wishes to them for a speedy recovery.
I would also like to express my gratitude to the Turkish nation for the outpouring of support and the messages of goodwill that we have received from Turkish leaders and the Turkish people. It is at moments like this that the world can see the true depth of the respect and friendship between our two nations.