I find the Chilean Miner Rescue astonishing! After the mine collapsed on August 5th things looked bleak for finding anyone alive until the rescue drilling reached an area where prepared notes were taped to the drill bit by the trapped miners. "Estamos bien en el refugio los 33" (We are well in the shelter, the 33 of us) was the first sign to confirm that miners were alive!
69 days later on October 13th, all 33 miners were brought to the surface in the Phoenix Rescue Capsule! Chilean President Pinera spoke on location of his pride of the Chilean people and the unity, faith, and hope that brought them through this ordeal.
President Pinera should be proud. Although the Copiago mine in San Jose, Chile had a terrible safety record the rescue effort itself was amazing. It was the deepest ever rescue, after the longest ever time for survivors to be found.
I'm intrigued by the general sense of well being by the miners. Their health problems during the long wait was very minimal and their attitudes remained positive. After 18 days the first voice contact with the miners was made. When the miners learned that the rescue effort could take months, they handled the news well. Psychologists described the group of miners as very disciplined and very organized.
The successful rescue is a tribute to the Chilean government and all those involved including the miners themselves. I'm certainly impressed and applaud the efforts that took place inside the mine and on the outside that led to a happy reunion! Best news of the week!
