CLEVELAND, April 14 — BLE International President Don Hahs issued the following statement this morning.
“American prayers were answered yesterday when the seven prisoners of war in Iraq were returned to the freedom of coalition forces. It was a very welcome sight to see them in good condition and out of harms way.
“After the daring rescue of PFC Jessica Lynch, these seven prisoners were on the minds of millions of people all across the globe. We are hopeful that those service men and women listed as Missing In Action will soon be accounted for.
“On behalf of the entire membership of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers, I extend a heartfelt ‘welcome home’ to the former prisoners of war and express our most sincere thank you for the service you have provided in defending freedom against hostile forces. Your strength and courage are to be admired by all who embrace freedom.”