Louis James Langlais bio

Master Chief Langlais, 44, was a native of Santa Barbara, California. He enlisted in the United States Navy in June, 1986.

After graduating Recruit Training Command at San Diego, California in September, 1986, he reported to the USS Wadsworth (FFG 9) where he served until January, 1989. In February of 1989, he reported to Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL training at Coronado, California. After graduating BUD/S in October, 1989, he reported to a West Coast based SEAL Team until January, 1997. He then joined the Navy Parachute Team where he served until February of 2000. He then served in several East Coast based SEAL teams over the next 10 years until his death in 2011.

Master Chief Langlais’ awards include the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” device for valor (4), Joint Service Commendation Medal(2) one with Combat “V” device for valor, Navy/Marine Corps Achievement Medal (3), Combat Action Ribbon (3), Presidential Unit Citation, Good Conduct Medal (7), National Defense Service Medal, Southwest Asia Service Medal (2), Afghanistan Campaign Medal (3), Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon (7) Rifle Marksmanship Medal, and Pistol Marksmanship Medal.

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Commander, Naval Special Warfare Command, Rear Admiral Sean A. Pybus, released the following statement:

“ Early Saturday morning, Aug. 6, Naval Special Warfare suffered a tremendous loss of 22 men while conducting critical special operations combat in Afghanistan. They cannot be replaced. We will honor their service and sacrifice, and embrace their families as our own, in this time of immeasurable grief. The outpouring of support and sympathy from the Armed Services, the Government, Communities and the Public is well beyond my ability to properly thank. The Naval Special Warfare Community is deeply humbled and appreciative.

Our NSW men were in company with U.S. Army aircrew, U.S. Air Force para-rescue and combat controllers, and an Afghan security element. We grieve for all of them, and admire their teamwork, commitment and courage. I have great hope for the future knowing that extraordinary men dedicate themselves completely to the idea and the actions of freedom and security, not only for ourselves but for others. We are truly blessed that such men answer a call to military service at the highest levels of professionalism and capability, but also deeply saddened by their loss. In the days and weeks ahead, I would ask for your thoughts, prayers and support for NSW, our Families, the Special Operations Community, and all of our Armed Forces.”

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Insurgents shot down a Chinook helicopter in Eastern Afghanistan on August 6, 2011, killing 30 U.S. service members and eight Afghans, including 22 members of Naval Special Warfare.