KATHMANDU: The Kathmandu-based US Embassy on Friday paid tribute to victims of the May 12 US Marine helicopter crash, including US Marines, Nepal Army soldiers and Nepali civilians.

Six US Marines, two NA soldiers and five Nepali civilians were killed in the crash of UH-1 Huey helicopter in Dolakha district.

The plane had left Kathmandu for Dolakha to ferry people, injured in the magnitude-6.8 aftershock that struck the nation on May 12.

Issuing a press statement, the US mission said it organised a memorial dedication service for the victims today.

The memorial plaque for the victims was placed at the premises of the Phora Durbar American Compound, which served as the home base for the Marines.

Speaking at the function, Chargé d’Affaires John L Carwile said, “This tragedy will forever serve as a reminder that our nations have been working together for almost 70 years.”

“We came together in Nepal’s hour of need, and will continue to stand with one another as this nation recovers and rebuilds,” the statement quoted the official as saying, “This memorial plaque will always remind us that together, our two countries can accomplish great things.”

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