WASHINGTON (Sputnik) — US Navy and Marine Corps stand ready to defend the United States following the deadly mass shooting in Orlando, Florida, US Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus said in a statement on Monday.
"Our thoughts are with the people of Orlando and the LGBT community as we all continue to mourn the victims of this horrific attack," Mabus stated. "Your US Navy and US Marine Corps stand ready and united to protect our people, defend our nation, and to take action against those who threaten us."
Early on Sunday morning, a shooter identified as US national Omar Mateen, opened fire in a crowded gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida killing 49 people and injuring at least 53 others. The 29 year-old shooter was previously investigated by US law enforcement for possible ties to terrorist organization.