*Administration of Barack Obama, 2012 *

**Statement on the Rescue of Jessica Buchanan **

*January 25, 2012 *

On Monday, I authorized an operation to rescue Jessica Buchanan, an American citizen who was kidnaped and held against her will for 3 months in Somalia. Thanks to the extraordinary courage and capabilities of our Special Operations Forces, yesterday Jessica Buchanan was rescued and she is on her way home. As Commander in Chief, I could not be prouder of the troops who carried out this mission and the dedicated professionals who supported their efforts.

Jessica Buchanan was selflessly serving her fellow human beings when she was taken hostage by criminals and pirates who showed no regard for her health and well-being. Last night I spoke with Jessica Buchanan's father and told him that all Americans have Jessica in our thoughts and prayers and give thanks that she will soon be reunited with her family. The United States will not tolerate the abduction of our people and will spare no effort to secure the safety of our citizens and to bring their captors to justice. This is yet another message to the world that the United States of America will stand strongly against any threats to our people.

NOTE: The statement referred to John Buchanan, Ms. Buchanan's father.

*Categories:* Statements by the President : Buchanan, Jessica, rescue*.*

*Names:* Buchanan, Jessica; Buchanan, John*.*

*Subjects:* Somalia : Abductions, U.S. citizens and other foreign nationals; Somalia : Piracy.

*DCPD Number:* DCPD201200049.