Chile miners rescue in quotes
Channel 4 News reflects the compelling words of those involved in the recovery of the 33 Chilean miners – rescuers, relatives, heads of state and the miners themselves.
The 33 Chilean miners were trapped underground for more than two months before being rescued in a dramatic mission which caught the world’s attention.
Some have estimated up to a billion people watched their escape from the mine.
But what have they – and their relatives and rescuers – had to say about it?
“I hand the shift over to you and hope this never happens again” the last miner to be rescued, Luis Urzua, told Chile’s President Sebastian Pinera as they hugged.
“This was the toughest match of my life” Franklin Lobos, a former professional football player who turned to mining later in life.
“Mission accomplished” a sign held up by rescuers when all 33 miners were safely on the surface.
“Welcome to life.” Chile’s President Pinera.
“This is a miracle from God” Alberto Avalos, uncle of the first miner to be rescued Florencio Avalos.
“This rescue is a tribute not only to the determination of the rescue workers and the Chilean government but also the unity and resolve of the Chilean people who have inspired the world” President of the United States, Barack Obama.
“Thank you for believing that we were alive” Jorge Galleguilos, the eleventh miner brought to safety, to President Pinera.
“Welcome to life” President Pinera to the first miners who emerged.
“I have been with God and I’ve been with the devil…I seized the hand of God.” Freed miner Mario Sepulveda
“I have changed. I am a different man” miner Mario Gomez, after his rescue.
“It really has been something magic. We will never forget this night” President Pinera to Prime Minister David Cameron, on the phone.
“I have been with God and I’ve been with the devil. I fought between the two. I seized the hand of God, it was the best hand. I always knew God would get us out of there” Mario Sepulveda, the second miner to be pulled from the mine.
“It felt like a year” Mother of miner Juan Illanes, Elsa Palma, on the time the miners spent underground.
“Chi Chi Chi! Le Le Le! We are the miners of Chile!” chanted by the crowd as each miner was rescued.
