[HAL9000]

Doesn’t this sorta look like the Columbian government could have done this any time they wanted to?

They probably could not just go in any time and gotten a successful rescue. They have tried on several occasions, and made a good effort in a dangerous situation. They've spotted the hostages a few times, but were unable to rescue them successfully, mindful of an incident last year when several Colombian hostage politicans were killed in a FARC "friendly fire" incident. Over time, the Colombian army has been able to disrupt a lot of FARC's command and control structure, and that probably helped the rescue effort today.

It's really a miracle that the hostages were rescued alive. Sometimes the better thing to do is wait for the right opportunity.

And now Uribe can take off the gloves and get more aggressive against FARC. Hopefully, the lefty politicians like Bentancourt have learned a lesson and will stay out of rebel-held areas as the next offensive unfolds.

[DoughtyOne]

Thanks for the comments Hal. I know it sounds like I’m being unfair to the government down there, but this just seemed too well timed.

I too think it’s a great thing. I am impressed that they are still alive. I am impressed that they were freed alive.

I am happy for them.

You’re comments on Uribe and the lefty politicians was a good one. I agree with them.

Take care.

[STARWISE]

It is a bonafide spectacular special ops rescue! God bless the hostages and the Columbian military ... trained by the finest in the world: The US Armed Forces .. likely our Special Ops, Deltas, etc.

There's no doubt in my mind, while all the public kudos are going out to Uribe and the Columbian troops .. and rightfully so, for their fight for freedom, perseverence and skill .. the US Special Ops and CIA communities, etc. were integral to this stunning feat .. totally .. in training, intelligence and support.

Bet it will be a movie .. it's just too wonderfully clever and awesome.

I love the US military. God bless and protect them.

Special Forces Creed

I am an American Special Forces Soldier. A Professional!

I will do all that my nation I requires of me.

I am a volunteer, knowing well the hazards of my profession.

I serve with the memory of those who have gone before me: Roger's Rangers, Francis Marion, Mosby's Rangers, the First Special Service Forces and Ranger Battalions of World War II, The Airborne Ranger Companies of Korea..

I pledge to uphold the honor and integrity of all I am - in all I do.

I am a professional soldier.

I will teach and fight wherever my nation requires.

I will strive always, to excel in every art and artifice of war.

I know that I will be called upon to perform tasks in isolation, far from familiar faces and voices, with the help and guidance of my God.

I will keep my mind and body clean, alert and strong, for this is my debt to those who depend on me.

I will not fail those with whom I serve.

I will not bring shame upon myself or the forces.

I will maintain myself, my arms, and my equipment in an immaculate state as befits a Special Forces soldier.

I will never surrender though I be the last.

If I am taken, I pray that I may have the strength to spit upon my enemy.

My goal is to succeed in any mission – and live to succeed again.

I am a member of my nation's chosen soldiery. God grant that I may not be found wanting, that I will not fail this sacred trust.