Congressman Henry Cuellar issued the following statement today in reaction to the rescue of 15 people held captive by Colombian rebels.  The hostages included three American military contractors taken captive when their surveillance plane went down in 2003. Marc Gonsalves, Keith Stansell and Thomas Howes, who were believed to have been held longer than any other U.S. citizens currently in captivity in the world, arrived in San Antonio this morning aboard a military plane.

"The news that three American hostages and their fellow captives held by Colombian rebels have been rescued is a victory for President Uribe, the Colombian military and the nation of Colombia. I am thankful that these brave men and women will be delivered safely to their loved ones and am grateful to Colombia’s armed forces for its brilliant execution. 

"This indicates great progress for the nation of Colombia, and I congratulate President Uribe for his leadership. I look forward to achieving greater progress in bringing rebel leaders to peace negotiations and to a stronger working relationship between Colombia and the United States."

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Congressman Henry Cuellar is a member of the House Homeland Security, Small Business, and Agriculture Committees in the 110th Congress.  Accessibility to constituents, education, health care and economic development are his priorities. Congressman Cuellar is also a Senior Whip.