[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.