    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1999, Book I)]
    [May 2, 1999]
    [Page 670]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Release of American Infantrymen Held Prisoner by
    Serbian Authorities
    May 2, 1999

        I am pleased that our three American
    servicemen who have been held as
    prisoners by Serbian authorities have today been released and that they
    are now safely out of Serbia. I am grateful to Reverend Jackson and his delegation for helping to secure their freedom.
    All of America is anticipating their safe return.
        As we welcome our soldiers home, our thoughts also turn to the over
    one million Kosovars who are unable to go home because of the policies
    of the regime in Belgrade. Today we reaffirm our resolve to persevere
    until they, too, can return with security and self-government.

    Note: In this statement, the President referred to civil rights leader
    Jesse Jackson, whose personal appeal won the release of Staff Sgt.
    Andrew A. Ramirez, USA, Staff Sgt. Christopher J. Stone, USA, and
    Specialist Steven M. Gonzales, USA.