    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1994, Book II)]
    [December 18, 1994]
    [Page 2186]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Helicopter Tragedy in North Korea
    December 18, 1994

        We have been informed by the Government of the Democratic Republic
    of North Korea, through Congressman Bill Richardson who is in Pyongyang,
    that one of the pilots of the U.S. Army helicopter that strayed into
    North Korean airspace on December 16, Chief Warrant Officer David
    Hilemon of Clarksville, TN, was killed in the downing of the helicopter.
    North Korean officials have told Congressman Richardson that the other
    crewman, Chief Warrant Officer Bobby Hall of Brooksville, FL, is alive
    and reportedly uninjured. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families
    of both of these dedicated aviators.
        Congressman Richardson, who has been in continuing contact with
    Secretary of State Warren Christopher during this period, has at my
    instructions told the North Korean Government that we want prompt access
    to Chief Warrant Officer Hall and his return to a U.S. facility along
    with the remains of Chief Warrant Officer Hilemon. We are using all
    available channels to press for an early resolution of this matter.
        This tragic loss of life was unnecessary. Our primary concern now is
    the welfare of Chief Warrant Officer Hall and his return along with the
    body of Chief Warrant Officer Hilemon. Congressman Richardson, who has
    worked tirelessly to resolve this matter over the past 2 days, is
    staying in North Korea for now and will remain in constant contact with
    North Korean officials on our behalf.