Schakowsky Statement on the Release of American Hostages in Colombia

SCHAKOWSKY STATEMENT ON THE RELEASE OF AMERICAN HOSTAGES IN COLOMBIA

Washington, D.C.–U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (D-IL) released the following statement today in response to news that three American hostages and former Colombian presidential candidate Ingrid Betancourt have been safely rescued in Colombia. The three American contractors were being held hostage by the Revolutionary Army Forces of Colombia, also known as FARC, after their anti-drug plane was shot down in 2003.

"After years of working on this issue, I am relieved that all three of the American hostages and Ingrid Betancourt have been safely rescued. Over the years, I became close with Jo Rosano, Marc Gonsalves' mother. Jo never gave up hope that her son would return home someday. I am so happy for her and all the other families that this day has finally come. It has been a painful ordeal for all the families involved, but today their prayers have finally been answered. My heart goes out to all the families and the freed hostages today on this joyous occasion....