A resolution remembering the December 6, 2019, terrorist attack at Naval Air Station Pensacola and commemorating those who lost their lives, and those who were injured, in the line of duty.
Term Dictionary
If you come across any unfamiliar words while reading, these resources can help make everything clearer. Pick whichever one works best for you!
- Congress.gov Legislative Glossary - Comprehensive congressional terms
- NVFC Congressional Terms Glossary - Concise, easy-to-understand definitions
The gist
Senate resolution honors the 3 sailors killed and others wounded in the 2019 terrorist attack at Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola by a radicalized Saudi flight student.
Who wins, who loses
- Wins: families of the fallen sailors, Escambia County responders, and military personnel who earned valor medals.
- Loses: no one materially; the resolution is symbolic only.
What it does
- Names Ensign Joshua Watson, Petty Officer Mohammed Haitham, and Petty Officer Cameron Walters, who were killed.
- Condemns the attacker, a Saudi military trainee linked to Al Qaeda before the shooting.
- Recognizes 8 Purple Hearts, 9 Navy and Marine Corps Medals, and 8 law enforcement Medals of Valor awarded.
- Commends Department of Defense (DoD) steps to tighten security at military bases.
Why should I care?
Supporters say public remembrance keeps pressure on the Pentagon to vet foreign military trainees, who still train on US bases. Critics say symbolic resolutions can replace real reforms, like tighter screening or limits on the foreign training program itself. The 2019 attack reshaped how the DoD handles international students. Where do you land? Vote below and use "Tell Your Rep" to make sure your voice reaches Congress.