Ohio Navy Medic Among Those Killed In Afghanistan Terror Attack

MILAN, OH — Northeast Ohio native Max Soviak was among those killed during the terrorist attack Thursday at Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul.

"We mourn the loss of this sailor and we offer our deepest condolences to the loved ones of our fallen shipmate," the U.S. Navy said in a statement on Friday.

Soviak was a 2017 graduate of Edison Local Schools, Fox 8 reported. During his school days, he took part in a host of activities including football, wrestling, tennis, track and band. His family is asking for privacy during this time.

“Our nation mourns the loss of Navy Corpsman Max Soviak, whose uncommon courage in the face of unfathomable danger ensured the safe passage of countless civilians. We will never be able to repay the debt we owe him, but we will be forever grateful for his willingness to serve when America needed him most. Our hearts go out to his family during this time, and we lift them up in prayer that they may find comfort in his memory," said Rep. Marcy Kaptur in an emailed statement.

On Thursday, suicide bombers and gunmen attacked crowds at the Kabul airport, killing at least 169 Afghans and 13 U.S. troops, according to The Associated Press. Approximately 5,000 people were massed at the airport trying to make it onto flights leaving Afghanistan.

More than 140 other Afghans were hurt during the attack, while 18 service members were wounded.

Gov. Mike DeWine has ordered that flags be lowered at all public buildings and grounds in honor of all U.S. service members and others killed during the terrorist attack in Kabul. Flags should remain lowered until sunset on Monday.

Reporting from the Associated Press was used in this article.