Heritage Foundation Leadership for America

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."