The former Marine who spent more than 2,000 days in Russian custody spoke out after a historic, multi-country prisoner swap allowed him and three other to return to the U.S.
Evan Gershkovich, Paul Whelan and Alsu Kurmasheva deplaned shortly before 4:30 a.m. eastern at Joint Base San Antonio, officially marking the beginning of their next chapter, free and back home in the United States.
The three embraced one another for a photo surrounded by their loved ones and held up the Hostages and Wrongful Detainees flag.
“This is us down here,” Whelan said pointing to three slash marks on the bottom of the flag, “Those last three, that’s us.”
Upon their arrival, they were greeted by officials who gave them instructions on immediate next steps. Col. Davis explained that they would first send them for a medical assessment while their families stayed overnight in hotels off base.
Whelan wore the American flag pin given to him by President Biden at Joint Base Andrews — “It’s a keepsake.”
Please… Continue reading on the next page
No-Bake Lemon Cheesecake Cups
8 Clever Uses For Dawn Dish Soap
11 Expert Tips for Growing the Biggest, Most Beautiful Roses
How to Make Perfect Scrambled Eggs Every Time: Soft, Creamy & Delicious!
Jennif3r L0pez flaunts her curves in a white 0ne-piece swimsuit: ‘It was a summer!’
Elevate Your Coffee Routine with a Flavorful Twist: The Power of Ginger & Cinnamon
