Ohio senators issue statements about Drake

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CLEVELAND – U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) issued the following statement on Saturday following reports that the U.S. Navy has recovered the body of Petty Officer Jacob Daniel Drake, a native of Champaign County and Triad High School alumni:

“Petty Officer Drake’s passing is heartbreaking news for Ohio and for our nation. Connie and I join the Champaign County community in prayers of peace and comfort for Jacob’s friends and family, as we commit to honor his memory and the ultimate sacrifice he made for our country.”

Drake was among sailors who perished when the USS John McCain collided with an oil tanker near Singapore earlier this month.

The collision tore a hole in the ship’s left rear hull and flooded adjacent compartments, including crew berths and machinery and communication rooms. The U.S. Navy said it has suspended search and rescue efforts, though divers continue search and recovery efforts inside flooded compartments of the ship.

On Sunday, U.S. Sen. Rob Portman (R-OH) released the following statement on the passing of Drake:

“My heart aches for the family of Jacob Drake, who died from the collision involving the USS John S. McCain. Jacob was a young man of great promise who dedicated his life to the service of our country. Jane and I are praying for Jacob’s family and his fiancé he leaves behind. Those who knew him personally will remember him for the man he was, but we will all remember him for his patriotism and service that is emblematic of the best of Ohio.”

Staff report

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