I'm very sorry to have to report that the M-16 wielding space alien known only as "The Commander" was fatally shot in Iraq early this morning during a covert operation in the city of Ar Ramadi.
The Commander had been using a highly sophisticated alien plasma cannon while fighting earlier this week in Fallujah.
However, the Commander exhausted his supply of plasma fuel cells during the fighting and was forced to use Earth weapons with which he was somewhat unfamiliar.
The Commander appears to have been frantically attempting to clean his M4 rifle when he was shot.
The Commander was able to take out several enemy troops with his M9 pistol (which you can see is locked back empty) before he was shot.
It is still unclear whether the weapon malfunctioned, or whether The Commander failed to maintain the weapon properly. An investigation is underway to resolve these questions.
The Commander displayed unparalleled bravery in combat and his heroic sacrifice will not be forgotten.