SEAL Team 6 members killed in Afghanistan

Posted: 08.06.2011 at 3:30 PM Updated: 08.06.2011 at 5:25 PM

WASHINGTON (WACH, AP) -- The Associated Press has learned that more than 20 Navy SEALs from the unit that killed Osama bin Laden were among those lost in a helicopter crash in Afghanistan.

The operators from SEAL Team Six were flown by a crew of the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment.

That's according to one current and one former U.S. official.

Both spoke on condition of anonymity because families are still being notified of the loss of their loved ones.

U.S Representative James E. Clyburn issuing a statement Saturday following the news of the crash:

"My thoughts and prayers are with the families of the U.S. military personnel who made the ultimate sacrifice in Afghanistan today. They represent the elite in our military forces and their service to our nation is immeasurable. We honor the service and sacrifice of all who have served in Afghanistan, especially those who have given their lives in support of our mission there."

One source says the team was thought to include 22 SEALs, three Air Force air controllers, seven Afghan Army troops, a dog and his handler, and a civilian interpreter, plus the helicopter crew.

The sources thought this was the largest single loss of life ever for SEAL Team Six, known as the Naval Special Warfare Development Group.