Chesapeake, Va. - The State Department confirmed a Chesapeake man died while being detained in Yemen.
John Hamen was a retired Army Master Sergeant working as a contractor.
The State Department would not say how he died. CBS News reports he was working in Yemen as a contractor and was detained shortly after arriving at an airport.
Hamen was a father of seven. His childhood friends say Veterans' Day will take on a new meaning for them. "He was full of energy, full of enthusiasm, always interested in exploring, always interested in family and friends," said Michael Bruns, a friend.
The family asked for privacy and released the following statement:
“During this very difficult time for our entire family, we hope that everyone can understand our need for privacy as we grieve and remember John as a loving husband, wonderful father to our seven children and a devoted friend who we will be missed beyond words.”
