by Charles Hoskinson BREAKING – U.S. special operations troops overnight rescued a U.S. woman and a Danish man who had been taken hostage by kidnappers in Somalia while working for a Danish demining group. In a statement, Panetta said Jessica Buchanan and Poul Thisted were rescued without injury and “have been transported to a safe location where we will evaluate their health and make arrangements for them to return home.” No U.S. troops were killed or injured in the operation, he said.

OBAMA’S STATEMENT: “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.”

MARINES IN AFGHANISTAN on Tuesday paid tribute to six of their comrades killed Thursday in the crash of a CH-53D helicopter in Helmand province. NATO officials are still investigating the crash but say there were no signs of enemy activity in the area. Killed were: Capt. Daniel B. Bartle, a native of Ferndale, Wash.; Capt. Nathan R. McHone, from Crystal Lake, Ill.; Master Sgt. Travis Riddick, a native of Centerville, Iowa; Cpl. Joseph D. Logan, of Willis, Texas; Cpl. Kevin J. Reinhard, from Colonia, N.J.; and Cpl. Jesse W. Stites, who grew up in Roxana, Ill., and Interlachen, Fla.

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