After weeks of being trapped in a cave due to high flood waters, all 12 soccer players and their coach were rescued by four Thai Navy SEALs on Tuesday.
“Thank you to God,” one of the boy’s mothers exclaimed after learning that her son was safe.
After being stranded in the Tham Luang Nang Non cave for two weeks, the boys and their soccer coach were rescued — an answer to prayers uttered around the world.
‘Everyone Safe’: Thai Navy SEALS Announce the Successful Rescue of ALL Those Trapped in Cave
It was a mission that many watched and waited for in anticipation and solidarity with the parents of the trapped children. The harrowing rescue efforts resulted in the death of one retired Thai Navy SEAL, Petty Officer Saman Gunan.
For much of the two-week ordeal, it was painfully uncertain whether a safe rescue was even possible — a reality the children’s parents knew all too well.
“Thank you so much for all prayers and all the encouragement. Thank you to God. I’m really thankful that they found my son and all 13 are alive,” the mother said. “I’m so happy and so thankful to see my son again. Thank you so much to everyone that has been praying for us and the boys and helping us; thank you.”
Once the boys and their coach were rescued, the Thai Navy SEALS released an update on the accomplished mission via Facebook: “12 wild boars and coach out of the cave. Everyone safe. This time, waiting to pick up 4 Frogs. Hooyah.”
หมูป่า 12 ตัว และโค้ช ออกจากถ้ำแล้ว ปลอดภัยทุกคนเวลานี้รอรับมนุษย์กบ 4 คน ออกมาครับผมHooyah
Posted by Thai NavySEAL on Tuesday, July 10, 2018
Many leaders around the world also chimed in with their congratulations to the Navy SEALS, including President Donald Trump.
TRAGIC: Former Navy SEAL Dies Assisting Trapped Boys in Thai Cave
On behalf of the United States, congratulations to the Thai Navy SEALs and all on the successful rescue of the 12 boys and their coach from the treacherous cave in Thailand. Such a beautiful moment – all freed, great job!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 10, 2018
Theresa May also sent out words of gratitude, saying she was “delighted” that they were rescued.
Delighted to see the successful rescue of those trapped in the caves in Thailand. The world was watching and will be saluting the bravery of all those involved.
— Theresa May (@theresa_may) July 10, 2018
Prayer is still needed as the boys, their coach and the SEALs involved in the rescue efforts recover from the successful yet taxing experience.
(H/T: Compassion)