WASHINGTON
, APRIL 13, 2009--Ed Feulner, president
of The Heritage Foundation, issued the following statement
concerning the rescue of Captain Richard Phillips.
"International incidents sometimes hit quite close to home. This
was the case last week, when pirates attacked the Maersk Alabama
container ship and took Captain Phillips hostage. His brother, Jim,
is our Senior Research Fellow for Middle Eastern Affairs here at
The Heritage Foundation.
"As you can imagine, the captain and his entire family were in
our hearts and prayers throughout this harrowing ordeal. On Sunday,
our prayers of petition turned to prayers of thanksgiving. We are
overjoyed by the news of his deliverance, thrilled at the prospect
of his reunion with family and loved ones, and grateful for the
skill and nerve of the U.S. Navy Seals.
"God bless the Seals. God bless Captain Phillips. Well done,
sir, and welcome home."