[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.