On behalf of the men and women of the Department of Defense, I extend my deepest condolences to the family of Kayla Mueller, who died while being held hostage by ISIL, and who was abducted while providing aid to victims of the conflict in Syria. The world is united in condemning ISIL's continued murder and imprisonment of innocents.

As we join Kayla's family and loved ones in their grief, we also celebrate her selfless dedication to helping others. Her compassionate spirit will never be forgotten.