Office of Governor Gary Locke
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - April 11, 2001
Contact:  Governor's Communications Office, 360-902-4136

Gov. Locke statement on release of American aircrew in China

"I welcome China's decision to finally release the 24 American service men and women who have spent 11 days in custody after surviving a mid-air collision and a dangerous emergency landing in an unfamiliar country.

"Our job now is to reunite these courageous members of our armed services with their families as soon as possible.

"I'm looking forward to personally greeting them upon their return to their home base at Whidbey Island Naval Air Station and thanking them for their selfless service to our nation.

"I'd also like to commend President George W. Bush for the hard work he and his administration invested in returning these men and women to their families and country."

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