Military and Defense

Bergdahl Freed But Scrutinized in 2014

In 2014 Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl was freed from captivity to the relief of his supporters in Idaho. But another tide turned: those who had waited for this day found themselves caught in political crossfire and lacking the broad support they had leaned on when he had been a P.O.W. Northwest News Network told the story of Hailey, Idaho and Bergdahl's family before and after his release in 2014.

U.S. Soldier Bowe Bergdahl Freed In Afghanistan

NWNews

Published May 31, 2014 at 12:52 PM PDT

A U.S. soldier held nearly five years in captivity by the Taliban is returning home. This morning, President Obama announced the release of Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl of Hailey, Idaho.

The lone remaining American POW from the war in Afghanistan was reportedly exchanged for Guantanamo Bay detainees. In a written statement, Bergdahl's parents in Hailey expressed joy and relief that their 28-year-old son is finally returning home.

Bob and Jani Bergdahl wrote, “We cannot wait to wrap our arms around our only son.”

President Obama called the family after Bergdahl was freed, following years of on and off negotiations. Bergdahl's release comes in connection with the transfer to Qatar of five Afghan detainees at Guantanamo Bay.

In a statement, President Obama said Bergdahl's release is a reminder of “America's unwavering commitment to leave no man or woman in uniform behind.”