First and foremost, I continue to be inspired by the outpouring of support and compassion that the entire Chattanooga community has put forth in the past several days since the tragic events last Thursday.

Logistics Specialist Petty Officer Second Class Randall Scott Smith passed away in the early morning hours yesterday, Saturday. Petty Officer Smith died from the wounds he suffered July 16 at Navy Operational Support Center (NOSC) Chattanooga. His passing is the latest heartbreaking blow to the Navy/Marine Corps team, and a devastating loss to the Chattanooga community.

Our thoughts and prayers remain with Petty Officer Smith's family, the fallen Marines and their families and all those impacted by these tragic events.
The efforts by the federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to collaborate and work through the investigation while simultaneously taking care of our community and service members and families, is reassuring and gives us all great strength. I would like to particularly call out Chief of Police Fletcher, his dedicated force of Chattanooga Police Officers and the medical team that worked so heroically on our injured.

Our family counseling and chaplain will continue to support to NOSC, Recruiting, Marine Corps staff and Reservists. They are an important part of the healing process, as equally important as the generous community initiatives have buoyed and sustained our families. The citizens of Chattanooga have been incredibly generous and their support has - and will - continue to make a huge difference during the process of recovery.