Thankfully the boys and coach were all rescued. What seems to be lost in all this is that there were signs outside the cave warning of the dangers of entry . This is the rainly season there. One rescuer paid with his life due to the irresponsible and negligent decision to take these boys into the cave. This must weigh heavily on the coach's conscience.
What a heroic efforts and personal sacrifices those people made.
Many of them we heard their names and saw their faces. But so-many-we may never learn their names or see their faces. They all are true heroes.
Bravo! NYT for your continue reporting and covering all aspects of the event that took place in a far away land where people speak different languages. Your reporters, contributors and editors have done a tremendous job. I knew it because I follow the news from many sources in both Thai and English.
If only half of the readers would bing-reading the previous articles that NYT conveniently provided the link below every new article like they did with a series on Netflix, this comment section.....oh well.
Now that the event come to an end, what I will always remember is the Thai Navy SEAL, Saman Gunan, who lost his life and the grace that his family have shown to the boys and the world amid their grief.
The voice that will stay with me came from the infamous video that Thai Navy SEAL posted on it’s Facebook of the discovery of the boys. It’s audible background in Thai between the coach and the boy who started crying at 0:28 you can hear the calm, gentle voice that said “don’t cry son...”
To those who wonder about his judgment, the parents of those boys wrote such a kind words in the note to him and spoke highly of him. They have reiterated that they trusted him with their child’s lives because they knew him. And who are you to judge the man!
2
All the divers from around the world who helped in this rescue are heroes and angels. They all collectively deserve the Nobel Peace Prize. To see these incredible people from all over the world descend on this place to save these kids' lives was so incredibly moving. The best of what Humanity can be. Thank you and God Bless all of you.
2
The Thai Navy not only successfully rescue the boys, they also accepted international help. Now compare that with Katrina, when the US was not just utterly incapable of rescuing its own citizens, who were drowning in front of the World, but also adamantly rejected any offers of help from other countries, preferring instead to sacrifice American lives rather tan "soil" the national pride. Of course, the lives lost to Katrina were black people, perhaps the US would have accepted international aid if they had been white, we will never know.
7
When does the movie come out
This incredible story must be told on the big screen to forthrt celebrate the soccer players, their coach, the British divers, and those Thai Navy Seals.
And , the strength of their parents and the spiritual element to this very human drama must be told on the big screen.
This was Thailand’s Apollo 13. But, the world must recognize the sacrifice the lone Thai Naval SeAl who gave his life while helping replenish that precious oxygen supply.
Blessing on all who were involved in helping to save the lives of those tough, young soccer players and their coach!
2
Tears of joy this morning reading that all the boys and coach have been rescued!
I am in awe of everyone involved in this incredibly complicated and dangerous mission.They are all heroes...especially Mr Saman Gunan who lost his life during the rescue efforts.My deepest condolences to his family.
3
I don't think I need any explanation how difficult this rescue is - just the thought of going underground with deep sea diving skills called for as well is enough to make me shudder. I was braced for the worst news and suddenly it all seems like a bad dream instead of a nightmare. I am not one for deep sea diving, mountain climbing, sky diving, marathon running, or any of the other pastimes that gets other people motivated. I am happy to sit on my front porch in my rocking chair (so to speak).
1
Great good news and great strengths, and some good reporting, do exist in the 21st century.
2
It's great that all the boys were saved. But at the same time, More than 50 Chinese tourists in Thailand died on a boat, and there was very little coverage! I'm a NYT fan, but your foreign correspondents (and those of other media) were side-swapped on their international coverage.
1
The last officers and medic are out, hooray! When the rainy season ends, I'm sure they will cave again another day.
1
So awesome Wild Boars! You guys dove better than Neymar!
4
Wait, isn't the coach the one who took them into the cave with monsoon rains coming? A hero? I don't think so.
1
To fans of Trump’s immigration “policy”: please take note that several of the trapped boys are “illegal aliens” in Thailand, as are their families. The 16 year old trapped boy who translated for the British divers is a stateless person of the Wa ethnic group from an area of Burma, not Thailand, whose poor and illiterate family slipped into Thailand illegally with him at 8 years of age and four other siblings so that he could get an education and so that their children could avoid being conscripted into danger and fighting by the local guerilla group. Was the family wrong for doing the best they could for their kids? They remain illegal as there has been no change in their status in Thailand. The school the boys attend has a number of undocumented children. Apparently Thailand has not fully enforced, or been able to enforce, their laws relating to entry and residence in Thailand. My question for you fans of Trump’s “policies” is whether Thailand should now deport the “illegal” boys and their families? Huh?
10
Although there is no comment section for the excellent background story today on the Thailand boys who'd been trapped in the cave, I'd like to thank the nyt for providing fascinating context to the boys' and their parents' lives of hardship:
https://www.nytimes.com/2018/07/10/world/asia/thailand-cave-soccer-state...
9
As a former Ski Patroller I am delighted to see the last of the Seal team out safely. Protecting the rescuers is a huge part of a great rescue.
3
No girls went in, did they? Probably not a thing in Thailand.
Well done Thailand!
3
Wonderful!
Great! But, how about the diver that died?
Lots of heroes. Especially the planners. But, the diver that died should be put in a special place. Certainly on the mantel of the parents of the rescued children.
I have no idea who this person was. But, what was his personal situation? Will his family have financial problems now that he is gone?
Is anyone noticing?
Joseph P Ficara
3
Something to celebrate.
But I wish that when a policeman confronts a black American who is mentally ill and holding a knife, they put some fraction of this kind of effort into settling the person down, and safely getting him or her the help they need, instead of shooting them down in cold blood.
Now please seal the entrance to the cave.
1
How did the kids and koach get that far back in the cave in the first place?
I hope the cave will be sealed.
2
Totally! I don't get why this cave, which is incredibly dangerous when dry, is left open year round, even during Monsoon Season, for anyone to enter! There is a big sign at the front of the cave that says "DANGER!! Do not enter during Monsoon Season. The cave will flood." But yet they leave it open for anyone to enter at any time. This seems extremely irresponsible. This cave is dangerous. Look what just happened. Are they taking any steps to limit access?
Why don’t we fill the Grand Canyon. People die there too.
I never understood the attraction of entering a cave in the first place when there is to much more to explore above ground.
1
I am humbled by the strength, valor, and willingness to sacrifice their lives that the Thai SEALS and expanded team displayed over weeks. It staggers me how brave they were to dive into a maze not knowing what they would face, how coordinated they were, and their heroism. I mourn the man who died, he gave his life for children.
Brave Thailand! Bravo!
8
Congratulations to all that made this work! And condolences to the family of the diver that died. I think this is all that needs to be said.
8
What an absolutely amazing and inspiring story! The pinnacle of human bravery & kindness, it gives me hope for the world. I often complain about the words "hero" and "heroic" being misused and overused, but they're quite appropriate in this instance (and maybe not strong enough!).
As more details come out about this operation I continue to be even more impressed with these rescuers and their efforts. BBC News Hour had some additional info today I had not heard before (one was how the initial British team almost missed the boys).
4
I am very glad the boys and coach are out safe and congratulations to those who made it possible. Luckily Trump had no part in this as then we’d have to be mourning today as a tragedy.
1
I wept this morning at the news. This is the kind of humanity, bravery, selflessness and global cohesion which the world of late has craved. And everyone agrees it's a miracle, without anyone claiming ownership of the God or dogma from which it sprung.
4
Thank God. I never thought this rescue would be possible. I am so sorry that one diver lost his life.
15
The world celebrates the reuniting of children with their parents. Let me say that again. The world celebrates the reuniting of children with their parents. Let me also say the American society can learn something from Thai society here.
10
Those who chose --CHOSE -- to stay: you deserve special praise. They survived because of you (the doctor and the four divers) That simple. You are the definition of courage...I will leave it there because I am choking up...
8
CHARLES DAVIS, Louisville KY
I think there is room in this world for credit for the divine as well as the courageous rescuers. Perhaps they worked in tandem. Why does it always have to be one or the other - God or man? I reclaim my right to believe in miracles and the divine in this country and speak freely if I so choose. Why do you Charles Davis, have a problem with that?
3
We are all absolutely thrilled that the twelve boys and their coach have been rescued. Can the press possibly restrain themselves from covering Elon Musk - who detracted from the effort our of apparently boundless hubris? The rescue team risked their lives and we are learning now about the incredible planning that they deliberately kept private. Musk contributed nothing and wanted the world to know about it. Wouldn't it make more sense for someone who is wasting billions of taxpayer money and defrauding his investors to hide in his office?
4
The Thai Seal Team should be Time Magazine's Persons of the Year and should receive any other award commensurate with their outstanding, heroic and selfless team efforts.
7
Im so happy everyone was rescued safely. Also, finally the Times did a companion piece with regards to the region in thailand where this took place. The people, the refugees from Burma and all those who live there; the Golden Triangle, etc. It took you guys 2 weeks to a story albeit a short one, but at least Americans know more about the people who live there and their hopes and struggles. I'm acquainted with a refugee family from that region who have lived in Portland now for over 9 years, they came from Burma and i was told by them the abuse they, their family and tribal people suffered for decades under the Burmese military. They are successful business owners now. Yes, Ameica is still a country for the poor and displaced who just want to live a life in peace, regardless of the crazy man we have in the White House who wants to change things .
5
Great background story on the ethnic, refugee and stateless status of some of the main subjects in the Thai cave rescue ordeal story in this paper today. They are the coach and three of the boys, including the high achiever and English speaker Adul. The story of the orphan monk coach is touching too. Mae Sai is a borderland in turmoil. This saga and great humanitarian rescue effort elided the rough points in that conflict, at least temporarily. It also brought together international aid and collaboration and rooting from everyone around the globe. A wonderful story of resilience, cooperation, human solidarity. Everyone at their best. Yes, we can.
6
One of the great parts of the story is the brilliant stateless or illegal immigrant as Trump would call Adul Sam-on, the boy whose command of English, Chinese, Thai, and his native tongue from Myanmar proved critical to the survival of the stranded group. Adul provide essential communication with the divers from different countries.
Those crossing borders to better their lives are no inventors, they are saviors. With superior work ethic, morality, and achievements they improve the lives of everyone in their host country not just their own. The Dream Act was not only to give a chance to Illegals like Adul but to strengthen American values, the American economy, and American security. Those who think there are some good Nazis, did not agree and blocked it.
9
I'm glad that the boys and their coach got out alive. I grieve for the diver who lost his life in a valiant effort to rescue the group. I hope that each person recovers uneventfully, and can cure any case of "cave fever" that they have acquired.
Now that the group is safe, it is time to examine how this occurred. The boys went on a hiking trip, and, along with their coach, who should have known better, continued deeper into the cave and at greater length than was wise. Is this an isolated event, or is this part of a problem with sports in general?
I submit that coaches, in all sports, continuously break the rules to "continue the game." Certainly, in the experience of my kid's involvement in little league, the coaches routinely ignored the rule of ending games 20 minutes before sunset. The rule was put in place because of long shadows that are cast at that time, leaving hitter and fielders vulnerable to line drives balls that are hit but cannot be readily seen. The coaches are "grown up little boys who don't know when to come in for supper."
I suspect that the same mentality played a role here; lucky that all boys and coach are out alive. The tragedy of the dead diver remains.
3
'Cause females wield so much power in SE Asia. ::chuckle, chortle:: How about the fathers get it together and do some parenting of their sons and daughters?
I am so so joyous about the news of the entire rescue of all 12 boys and their wonderful soccer coach. I felt so emotional during their crisis and am so relieved that nearly everyone survived. This is a tribute to the incredible humanity that exists in our global community. No one can ever repay you for your sacrifices, genorosity and caring. I was also very moved by the families of the Thai boys and their coach. Unlike other cultures, I did not see evidence of vengeance, anger, hostility. May these boys grow up to become strong human beings.
6
I'm so happy for these kids and their families. Definitely mourn the Thai SEAL who lost his life helping to find and rescue these kids. And thanks to all the other brave people who worked so hard to get them out safely.
1
The finest news about humanity. Those who were not engaged in the heroic rescue endeavor were cheering and praying all across the world for its success and now all compassionate hearts are celebrating the mission's completion while still feeling deep sorrow over the loss of one brave diver. Contrast this inspiring story with the U.S. vote under Trump's "leadership" against WHO's championship of the evident benefits of all healthy mothers' own milk for infants vs. the
well-documented history of the harm done by baby formula. For shame!
2
People, please don't thank god for this. Thank the brave divers and Navy Seals. Prayers didn't help. Only the courage of these responders.
3
Thailand, like most Asian countries (and the world) is highly gendered - a son culture. One cannot help but wonder if the effort and end result would've been the same for a group of girls with a woman chaperone.
2
You may be right. Nevertheless I am overjoyed the boys are all right!!
It's been explained many, many, many times!
Wonderful and inspiring.
2
I’m of course very happy, but also need to quote Walter Kirn’s utterly brilliant line after the Chilean version of this: “Now they’re trapped up here with the rest of us.”
Which is, of course, a much better place to be trapped—but you see the point.
1
It was very impressive to see multiple, international search and rescue organizations coordinate and align with Thailand's military (Navy Seals) to accomplish such a monumental task.
It adds perspective to the U.S. President's inability to work with U.S. allies in order to facilitate coordination and alignment between the United States and NATO countries.
It appears the U.S. President is being successful in coordinating and aligning U.S. objectives with Vladimir Putin's objectives. What is this leading to?
The people of Thailand should block off the cave so no one can get inside because it is a very dangerous cave and people could die inside of it. The 12 boys and their coach got trapped in there for a whole 18 days and they could have died. A Navy SEAL died by trying to save the soccer team and their coach. I think that the people of Thailand should fill the cave so no one can get in there to explore so that nothing like this ever happens again.
1
Fill in the cave?? That is really extreme. Do you realize that caves provide habitat for many species and are environmentally important for the people as well? Perhaps some common sense measures should be taken to prevent something like this from happening, starting with teaching kids to swim. It seems crazy to me that these kids and their coach would have gone in that cave if any of them didn't know how to swim!
1
I hope that the world around, authorities take that lesson to heart.
A miracle, as some may call the extraction of the young Wild Boar soccer team and there coach. Being trapped in a cave, can make you reflect. What will happen next? Or am I every going to see my family again? These were some thoughts of the boys who were trapped inside the Tham Luang Cave. Congratulations to the brave personal who were all involved in this operation. Truly shows how people around the globe care, and show they want to help. Also as I read, big thanks to Elon Musk, the man behind the gadgets which were developed to help these boys. A very touching, heartwarming and inspiring journey all to help the innocent boys. Amazing.
It shows that humans still have the capacity to care about others and particularly children in a life-endangering situation. It also shows that Americans are still capable of ignoring the utterings of a boorish lout when truly compelling images capture our attention and imagination.
Fantastic news. Now they should post signs on any entrances of this cave in every known language: Danger! Do not enter!
3
I hope they are all healthy enough to watch the funeral of Saman Gunan(a mere 38 years old himself) on Saturday. And when they leave the hospital, an apology and thank you to the family he left behind seems to be in order. Let us not forget there was huge sign warning of the catastrophic danger entering the cave posed.
2
They went deep in there to write their names on the interior cave walls after a soccer game victory.
Now that we can celebrate the rescue of the 12 boys and their coach, which took the efforts of thousands of volunteers and cost untold $millions and the life of a navy seal, can someone explain what these novice kids were doing 2.5 miles deep into a very dangerous cave system explored only by experienced spelunkers?
2
On top of all the other good news here, it's good to know the last four brave rescuers are now out safely. Excellent job, men! You and your families should be very proud of your courageous efforts.
5
Someone being interviewed said regarding the rescue of the soccer team and its coach: "What we have seen is the best of the best of humanity." First class, all the way: the concern, the commitment, the preparation, the decisiveness; the innovativeness, courage, and skill, in Thailand and from a magnificent international team that came together to make the rescue happen.
Then along came Elon Musk, grousing that the Thai leaders didn't use his mini-submarine that has never been tested in this kind of situation, right before heavy rain were forecast that could block all rescue attempts, in a gesture that felt like grandstanding with the real potential for catastrophe.
Perhaps Mr. Musk should attend to his businesses.
9
As bad--and as tragic--as this situation was, and as harrowing and scary it must have been for the parents and relatives of the kids and coach involved, the world needed it in order to feel and be as one. No more so than now, in fact, when, if I may quote the late Chinua Achebe, "things (seem to) fall apart" all around us. Thanks to the brave men and women who saved the lives of the kids and the coach. May the Lord bless all.
2
Much of the water that was in the cave originally was drained. Unfortunately the small farms near the cave were flooded because of this. Is there any collection being made to reimburse these farmers? This is a poor region, and the loss of an entire crop could be disastrous for these farmers and their families.
7
@Maureen The Thai gov’t stated it would compensate local farmers for the flooding. Starting a gofundme nonetheless seems like a good idea. I recall a local saying her flooded fields were unimportant: she just wanted the boys safe
1
THIS is the best of who we are as global citizens.
Heartfelt thanks to everyone who helped, especially to the family of hero Saman Gunan - may his family be supported through their tremendous loss.
11
Hope. Goodness. Joy. Yup, that's what the past two weeks have been about. These are in all of us and what bring us together as humans and one family.
Now, what happens to the same hope, goodness and joy the rest of the time when there is no immediacy or tragedy?
Trump and politicians of both parties have so much to learn from the rest of humanity. Life is more than votes and elections, money and power. When will they learn?
9
The successful rescue operation is over now. I would have expected that the governments of the US, UK, Australia, China and any other country involved would issue a communique that would strongly praise the courage and effort of the rescuers who risked their own lives to help a group of young men who easily could have suffered excruciating deaths. In a world where the tension among countries and cultures keeps world peace at bar, there should much more appreciation for the ability of several countries, some of whom are virtual enemies of each other, to work together to solve a complicated, difficult and dangerous effort. Finally, the Thai Seal who gave his life in this effort should be admired and praised all over the world. I haven't heard any of this.
7
Every day in the Australian news media I have read information from the Thai government, messages about the progress of the rescue, the bravery of the rescuers, and the difficulties they have faced. I have learned about the Australian doctor whose bravery and humanity knows no bounds. I have learned of the cooperation between the Thai Navy Seals and other international rescuers. I have read about the Thai rescuer who lost his life and I now know about him and about his family. I know about the coach whose commitment to those boys cannot be questioned. I know each of the boys' names and their ages. So, these people's efforts are being praised around the world. Maybe Trump's latest Tweet has kept all of this information off your front pages.
4
This only goes to illustrate what can be accomplished when people pull together, have a plan, are brave in their execution of that plan and can re-assure those in jeopardy that they will be taken care of. It also illustrates how a hero sacrifices himself for the greater good. I am sorry about the Navy Seal and for his family.
The Trump administration might take a lesson from this. We are better when we work together to solve problems. We are likely to succeed with a crafted plan.
Oh who am I kidding?
To take children from their parents was an object lesson designed to intimidate and deny their humanity and deter them from ever daring to come here again.
To rescue children in peril and treat them with love and concern is how it's supposed to be. The Thai cave is an object lesson.
Congratulations to all.
7
The people of Thailand should make this a national holiday to remind them to never give up, that when they work together they can make true miracles happen, and that there is no greater service than to sacrifice your life for another countryman.
5
I would sincerely hope that this incident would cause the mothers in the region who believe that teaching a child to swim increases that child's chances of drowning to rethink that belief.
2
'Cause females wield so much power in SE Asia - and the world.
::chuckle, chortle::
How about the fathers get it together and do some critical parenting of their offspring?
Thanks! This is the story of the world's goodness that we ought to be reading about! People from everywhere lending their strengths to save the day! Inspirational! We hung on every word the NYT printed hoping for a happy outcome. Sadly, we have to mourn the loss of one of the brave heroes.
9
Small Thailand as a nation pulled off a spectacular rescue. The boys, the coach and rescuers are amazing, brave individuals. Finally, the planners pulled off such a difficult complex rescue.
I am still waiting to hear from our immigration enforcers the good news that all children have been reunited with their parents, after seperating them and keeping them in detention for weeks. Shame on America, the most powerful nation in the world!
11
Oh happy day! This is the most wonderful news. I’ve been so stressed thinking about those poor boys. It is so gratifying in this terrible time in America to see people come together in the world to save these boys. It reminds us that the world is absolutely full of brave heroes who would do anything to help. As Mr. Rogers once said I believe - always look for the helpers when things are going badly. For all the bad people in the world there are so many more good ones. These rescuers deserve something special to honor their bravery and selflessness. I hope they get it. I feel jubilant. Congrats to all that assisted.
4
Kudos to the Times as well as other news outlets for covering the Thai boys trapped in the cave, It is a reminder that there are happy endings!! Many people inside and outside of Thailand helped--hopefully all our prayers made a difference.
If you have the time, read the coverage about the boys themselves. Many are refugees (this is part of the Golden Triangle) and some do not even have citizenship of any country. One of the boys speaks English, Thai and a couple other local languages and served as a translator when the British divers found them.
I hope that this ordeal and the boys' classy response generates some support for them. We all need young people that are that resilient!
6
I have yet to hear a clear account of how he got them in that spot in the first place.
3
It’s buried but it’s in the reporting: The caves are often explored on foot when dry, and most of the boys had been in them before. They went there as an after-practice group activity, but it started raining hard after they entered so the water rose drastically in the chambers between them and the entrance/exit. They continued further in to escape the water, eventually with no way out.
1
They went deep in there to write their names on the interior cave walls after a soccer game victory.
'Cause females wield so much power in SE Asia - or anywhere in the world.
::chuckle, chortle::
How about the fathers get it together and do some critical parenting of their offspring?
Thanks to the NYT for staying with this story to its conclusion.
7
Great news. More than one of my social media contacts has suggested we bring in the Thai Seals and the rest of the global force to free the kidnapped children at our border. They need all the help they can get, because we sure can't accomplish their release.
4
Bring that rescue team here. We have couple thousand children who need to be rescued.
19
This pro-human rights story, should be the top story--not the Kangaroo Court pick who will take away human-rights. We are no longer a shinning star, but a black hole of hypocrisy.
5
The drowning of a rescuer kind of ruined this whole story.
People of the world:
Stop with going deep into complicated caves unless you're a trained spelunker.
& Stop climbing Mt. Hood unless you're a trained & experienced pro. Stick to the Catskill & Adirondack-scaled peaks.
& Stop with the hang gliding, paragliding, wingsuit jumping off cliffs in wilderness period. If you insist on imitating an eagle, save it for some safer, supervised site where rescuers can actually get to you without risking their own lives.
Just don't do things for fun that could very well endanger rescuers.
& while you're at it, stop with houses in floodplains. Living on active volcanoes only if you sign a waver saying you do so at your own risk, & rescuers are not obliged to wade through lava to save you when the thing inevitably blows.
Willingly putting rescuers lives at risk in some remote, obviously dangerous situation, all for your own pleasure is wrong.
We are not birds, burrowers, beavers, bats, baboons or bush babies.
We are about the most physically inept, ungraceful, unagile creatures around.
Accept the fact that humans sacrificed all their grace & agility for our big troublesome brains.
& forget the Olympics already! You want to watch astounding agility, superhuman strength & unreal acrobatics, look at a lemur. Or a squirrel.
Or any tree-dwelling new world prehensile-tailed monkey. You want to watch a humanoid ape cousin do incredible stunts, study gibbons.
7
There is a known genetic mutation called R7 in the genome DDRM in the Human DNA known for risk taking. It's in our very DNA to take risks. Without risks we would never have discovered the Americas or have gone to the Moon.
I recently had a discussion with a colleague who contrasted the feel-good rescue in Thailand with the harsh treatment families are getting at the southern border of this country. She cited the Gestapo tactics of the current administration, comparing it with the compassionate Thai people whose third world innocence prevent them from seeking blame.
When I suggested it was wrong to conflate the two extremely different situations and that I felt the adult coach should be held accountable she said that it was the coach who kept the kids alive and that the litigiousness of our First World country should not figure into the innocence of the not-so-litigious Thais.
I reminded her that a man died in his efforts to save this group and were it not for the extremely poor judgement of the adult soccer coach in this scenario, no lives would have been lost.
As a parent I believe someone needs to be held accountable. Lives were at risk, a death occurred and several countries went to great expense to save these kids. When the dust settles I believe that despite the good news feelings we all share there is culpability here.
Time will tell. It's great that they are out but they should never have been led into the darkness in the first place. Litigiousness has nothing to do with seeking, at the least, an explanation.
Exploring the caves on foot is a well-accepted activity in this area, it is not considered negligent to the people affected. When the coach led them in, there was no perceived risk. Negligence would imply he knew this could happen and did it anyway. What follows from your logic is that no one should ever do anything, in case there is an accident, because someone may have to help. Your friend is right, this is no case to be litigated. Natural events can derail the best-laid plans, but that doesn’t make the coach negligent. Holding someone “accountable” for nature so that other people can feel better is ridiculous. The efforts of the rescue *volunteers* were undertaken despite the fact that they could not reasonably expect a guarantee of their own safety. It is precisely that they knew they were putting their own lives at risk which makes their efforts and sacrifices so meaningful. We do their bravery, compassion, and humanity a disservice by viewing these events through the lens of cost-benefit analysis. Furthermore, your view of “innocent third-world Thais” smacks of condescension. It’s not that they don’t KNOW they can blame someone; it’s that they understand something you seem not to: Life Happens, and it’s better to work together toward the best outcome possible and move on in peace than to force the continued suffering of someone who never meant to harm anyone in the first place.
64
Oh please, enough with the righteousness. You don't think the coach blames himself? Sometimes despite best intentions bad things happen and a knee-jerk "someone must pay" attitude that leaves no room for honest mistakes feels really misplaced in this moment of relief and admiration of the courage and heroism of all involved. Americans/foreigners should leave any demands for accountability to the Thai parents and rescuers.
20
Very well spoken Jaclyn. I couldn't agree more.
This news story recapping rescue should mention the Thai military diver who died.
1
I don't see how they could have accomplished this without on the spot guidance from Elon Musk. Must be fake news!
3
or trump...something good in the world happened in spite of him. No it is not fake news. This is wonderful good positive news. Stay out of it USA & djt.
2
The only good news I've read in weeks or perhaps months. The Thai people take care of their children. It is in sharp contrast to an American government that cannot reunite children that they forcibly separated from their parents. America is a third or fourth world country these days.
6
Once again it is proven, and proven to the entire world that if the human race works together, any achievement is possible. When will, we as a people learn, that there is only one planet, and one people, that it could be a paradise, but it seems there will always be people who do the work of evil and keep this planet a seething mess of War and anxiety. I wish the people, the ones with the big egos, the ones who seem to have been put on Earth to cause misery to other human beings, I wish they could find their own planet somewhere-let them destroy that planet and themselves, and leave the rest of us alone. They are the ones who belong trapped in a cave.
5
After seeing the boys' peaceful and sometimes even happy expressions in the cave and reading their charming words, ie, "Hi Mom and Dad. I love you. If I ever get out of here, I'd like to go to a bbq pork place," I feel as if Americans might want to learn more about Asian cultures as another way to "Make America Great Again." There was a certain peacefulness, lightheartedness, and sense of gratitude displayed in that cave. Maybe there are lessons to be learned.
23
What a poet fate sometimes shows herself to be. let us not forget all the bravery shown by the rescuers and the children themselves, this is one of the most uplifting stories of humanity, bravery and courage that I can ever remember
4
Here is a lesson for all parents in the world: TEACH YOUR KID HOW TO SWIM. Understand how to escape rip currents (swim parallel to the beach), know how to float feet first in river currents (to avoid head injury), practice holding your breath under water in friendly shore breaks at the beach as you tumble about (to learn not to panic.) Most importantly, KNOW HOW TO SWIM. There is no excuse not to, and the responsibility belongs to the parent.
Exploring caves does not usually require swimming lessons. Some would say Americans could do better. At least these news did not require an American school child shooting his classmates & friends with guns owned by “responsible” parents. This is a positive story happening in a foreign country that will end up on the travel ban.
1
Knowing how to swim would not necessarily have helped in this situation. The cave was rapidly filling up with water due to a flash flood. Even the most expert swimmer in their situation could have easily been smacked into a sharp rock and instantly killed. Growing up in Arizona you would hear warnings and cautionary tales about the perils of flash floods all the time. Mother Nature can be cruel and almost always wins. The boys did not do anything wrong and are incredibly lucky to have escaped the initial flooding to begin with.
1
Thank you Baklava. People make comments & judgments without knowing many, many things.
Someone here wrote that "the coach is a hero." He is nothing of the sort. He is an ignorant naïve man who foolishly put 12 students, and hundreds of rescuers in unnecessary danger. His poor decision to go there also cost the life of a Thai expert diver. That cave was known to be dangerous and was off limits to even savy cave explorers, much less students on a field trip. This man should lose his job and return to the Buddhist monastery for some serious meditation and self reflection.
3
Reading comments like this, I'm so grateful that NY Times readers have never been granted the opportunity to opine publicly on my mistakes of judgment. I truly don't see what is gained by piling on the coach.
9
@boji It was only off limits during monsoon season from July 1 onward
2
Where did you read that the cave was off-limits? All I have read is that exploring caves in this area is a common activity, and that most of the boys had been in this same cave before. Furthermore, the rescuers volunteered. They are free-thinking, free-acting adults that have trained specifically in cave rescue missions, so obviously they trained knowing full well that their services would be required at some point. It is a tragedy that the Thai Navy SEAL died in the rescue operation, but he volunteered for a dangerous job knowing the risks. Don’t dilute his ultimate sacrifice by blaming someone else for it.
2
The Musk story was pathetic. He got so much advertisement and visibility for his firm out of his offers. Millions worth in exposure and brand recognition for inserting himself into this story. I'm surprised the press gave him so much free space and coverage for nothing.
5
The idea that determination, dedication, and a clear purpose can direct the amazing results is hope for more. More for the rest of the stranded, forgotten, and endangered of this World. We have all been amazed of what its possible and seen the results. I wish for MORE!
7
Fine. We have been hearing the same bare bone story now for days as attention was focused on the suspense of the rescue mission. Now we would like more fleshed out story. I've read, for instance, that the coach had once been a Buddhist monk and that he showed the children how to meditate, which may have helped to calm them and maintain their composure (I wonder how American teenagers would have fared in such conditions). I'd like to know more about the kids and coach health condition and if they are kept as a group or separated in the hospital. Have they talked to their parents and friends (even if not come into physical contact with they yet)? I'd like to know how the rescue operation took place--did they semi drug the children so they could undergo the underwater journey? I hope also the press respects their privacy so as not to make their adaptation too hectic and hysterical.
8
Patience, my friend. Calm down. All will be revealed, but these kids & their coach need to get better first.
I had not read that, only that it is generally known not to enter caves nearing monsoon season. That's what I read, so this was not "spreading false info". I read reputable news sources (CNN, NBC and NY Times) so apparently that is what was told to news outlets and then reported. Not everything someone posts here is malicious/false info!
I had not read that, only that it is known not to enter caves nearing monsoon season. That's what I read, so this was not "spreading false info". I read reputable news sources (CNN, NBC and NY Times) so apparently that is what was told to news outlets and then reported. Not everything someone posts here is malicious/false info!
Also - even if it were a totally dry time of year, I'm not sure taking kids that far into a cave - miles down into the earth and such - is smart.
2
Very best to the coach, all the boys and the great team that carried off this miracle.
The world is dazzled - and grateful for this wonderful outcome!
22
Congratulations to everyone involved especially The rescuers and the soccer team. Thailand has finally provided what we all need... a story with a happy ending.
18
Fantastic news that all teammates and their coach are safe! The rescuers cannot be given too much praise; they deserve it all. Sadness prevails for Saman Gunam, the volunteer rescuer and his family who gave his life to these boys and their coach.
20
Amen to that! Yes, let us offer prayers for Saman Gunam. I do hope he or his Spirit are looking down to see how his work & death were not in vain. Saman Gunam is a hero just like his SEAL colleagues. Well done, Soldier! And thank you.
6
Brave men and brave kids. A good newsworthy story instead of the usual Trump debacles.
17
My wife and I followed this story DEEP for days. To everyone involved, thank you. There are people in this world who put themselves on the line, who figure out a way, who execute, who give no quarter to perceived risk.....and I am very grateful. So are millions of other people. So are the parents of these young men.
33
This is a tremendous story of the amazing things humans can accomplish when we work together on common goals. Congratulations to the team who carried out this incredible rescue.
24
I read this morning that the coach did not "lead them into the cave," as has been so widely reported and criticized - the boys went in and one of the moms asked the coach to go in and look for them (seeing the bikes left at the entry). He went in and protected them and probably kept them alive. Could the Times confirm this? He seems like a hero to me and I hate the narrative that he is somehow to blame.
25
This was reported early.
All the good in the world relies on our interdependent acts of loving kindness. Bravo to those who risked their lives to save others, to those who chose humanity over tribalism.
23
Brilliant and heroic effort! Such a joy to read about given all the vile and insipid nonsense coming out of our country.
19
Wonderful news but so sorry Mr Gunan lost his life in the heroic rescue efforts. Now please seal up that cave!
5
What absolutely wonderful news - as said in many posts, it's great to have good news like this. This is what happens when the international community pulls together, what can be achieved if the Human Race works together rather than against one another.
On another note, does anyone know if a fund has been set up for the soccer team, coach and the heroes who worked so diligently to save them?
15
Good news, indeed! Now I hope the media scrutiny and interest will turn to the hundreds of children separated from their parents and stored around the United States by the deliberate yet incompetent cruelty of the Trump Administration.
22
Wonderful! Like so many others I have been praying for their safe return to their families. But I hope the authorities build a fail proof barrier to the cave along with a commemorative plaque detailing the children's plight and the rescuers' ordeal (along with their fallen comrade) in order to convince any other novice or expert explorers to never enter that cave again.
6
Thank God everyone (soccer team, divers) made it out safely!
9
It is nice to have a "feel good" story to read. Too rare these days.
Congratulations to everybody who was involved in the rescue. Well done.
20
World wife Team effort to rescue theses kids and coach. It could have been any of our kids, I am extremely happy for the parents that are able to hug and kids their boys again.
5
This is gratifying news, but will there be no accountability for the adult coach who endangered his minor charges?
Sanctimonious and litigious parents is why teachers are hard to find and volunteers for programs dedicated to children impossible.
14
Putting their lives in danger isn't dedication, nor would it sanctimonious to ask that this coach, who is in a position of trust, be disciplined severely.
Before jumping to conclusions on blames and accusations, it is better to wait for more facts. In some other societies there would have been instant accusations and lawsuits to disrupt the international coordination efforts.
3
The parents and friends of these boys, and their coach, must be ecstatic. For me, it was a pleasure to read some news with a happy ending (except for the one death of the Thai SEAL - a very brave man).
7
Let us never forget or take for granted what we humans are capable of when we have the courage to look after one another.
15
Congratulations to the the young men (they aren't boys anymore!), the coach and of course the rescue teams that showed the world what is possible when people rally together to address a crisis. This is the best news I have read in many weeks!
8
This proves there is no "I" in team. Thank you to all those brave rescue workers, and a big cheer for the 12 boys and their coach who pulled through the ordeal. During the finals of the World Cup all the adult players/coaches, spectators, and reporters should give a special collective shout out to all the characters in this story.
And please let's stick only to the events of this story. The NY Times is doing just that, so why should we bring up politics which are not part of this scenario?
6
I hope the coach receives a hero's parade. He did nothing wrong and kept the boys alive for 9 days until they were found. I see no point in trying to find someone to blame. Stuff happens.
30
I don't disagree, however I've read that there were extensive warnings not to enter the caves at this time of year due to flooding. Common sense would seem to dictate that the coach had to know this and was careless in taking the boys in. One person lost their life due to this happening and it's still unknown if the boys will have health problems. Yes, his background (and meditation teachings) likely helped save the boys, but it came at a high cost for others.
5
I think he is somewhat responsible. He ignored a warning, but guess that could be any of us. I admire the parents’ generosity towards him. One guy died though. A 38-year-old.
3
Stop spreading false information. The warnings were for after July 1. The boys went in a week earlier. It doesn’t appear that anyone “ignored” anything or deliberately endangered these boys.
13
Like everyone, I rejoice in the rescue of the boys and their coach. I rejoice, too, in the amazing deployment of resources that made this possible.
Now, can we think abut the children suffering all over the world, the children of migrants being spurned across Europe, the children separated barbarically from their parents here in America.
Where are the resources to reunite these children with their parents?
Where there's a will, there's a way.
19
finally, a reason to smile.
10
This was a wonderful story to follow, with an even more wonderful ending. An inspiring example of the best of humanity and extreme skills. I must admit I didn't hold out much hope.
I also can't help but think that the Teflon Don must be peeved that this uplifting, positive story has upstaged his perverse, negative SCOTUS reality show in the news cycle.
11
Have we compensated the Thais for the secret torture prisons the U.S. government ran in Thailand? This was done contrary to U.S. and international law.
If they did run secret torture prisons in Thailand, it would have been with the consent of the Thai government.
1
The issue of boys not knowing how to swim in a country surrounded by water is not an absurdity. It is a tragedy and not only an issue for the Thais either. A whole swathe of countries -- most of Africa, Asia, the Caribbean and Latin America -- surrounded by water have large percentages of their population being unable to swim. Poverty, i.e., lack of resources to build swimming pools and to engage instructors, is the prime culprit -- local superstitions don't help either. You will also notice that even in the USA, which is considered the richest country in the world, a sizable number of people don't know how to swim and they are basically poor, inner city kids/people who have had no access to pools growing up.
As for your zeal to prosecute the coach, let us remind ourselves that we all have made mistakes in our lives and I am absolutely sure that the coach had no intention of harming the boys whatsoever.
1
Thousands of miles away, we rejoice with the people of Mae Sai. We are so relieved for your sons and their coach, as if they were all our own sons. Wishing everyone wonderful lives ahead.
19
An incredible international effort to rescue kids who can't swim and kudos to their parents who sent in notes that they weren't angry and encouraged the coach to stay strong. . News media worldwide kept us informed and were respectful. May all involved recover physically, emotionally and psychologically. Absolutely harrowing, but wonderful to see the best of humanity and mostly nice comments heretoo. Well done!
13
The team called itself the wild boars. The wild boar is a species known for its adaptability and for its survival instincts. Nothing happens without a reason. God works in mysterious ways. there is a lesson to be learned. The cave once empty for many centuries, is empty again. A sacrifice was made. Prayers were answered. Keep praying. It works.
3
There might have been a time when only the U.S. had the resources and technology for this, so it's good to see that much of the world has gotten pretty sophisticated.
All that's left is a congratulatory tweet from the president. Seems he doesn't weigh in on positive news, unless he can praise himself.
4
No, not the POTUS. Let’s keep his dirty thumbs out of this great story.
5
I just read a comment from a fellow student of these boys: "I was sure they would be out in 2 or 3 days". The implication of this and other statements is that it was commonplace for "teams" to go into such a cave albeit "one week before the rainy season". Now that everyone is safe and use a football metaphor : Monday morning quarterbacking! As exemplary as the Thai community appeared throughout they must now look at the practices which placed the lives of the victims and rescuers in peril.
Fantastic news indeed. Saman Gunan's efforts were not in vain.
There are some in these comments who focus on assigning culpability to the boys' coach. This seems misguided. The boys held their coach in great esteem. He had originally planned to become a Buddhist priest. Some of his training no doubt brought calm & serenity to a desperate situation. He made sacrifices for the boys such as giving up food & water to buy the boys a little bit of time. Were they not discovered, he would have been the first to perish. We refer to this as the full measure of devotion.
My understanding was that the team traditionally celebrated a game with a short hike in the cave. They entered at least one week before the official rainy season began & that there were no indications that rain was coming or that flooding was a concern. Their entrapment was entirely unexpected. Under the circumstances they tried their best to find a safe way out or to shelter in place. The entire event was due to bad luck. If one wishes to say that the coach was irresponsible, there are many mitigating factors that makes this attitude excessive.
What one sees in this event are the better angels of our nature. Devotion by the coach, the Thai military, Thai Navy SEALS Saman Gunan, the Thai people & good & decent people around the world for the well-being & safety of these boys was on display.
Yet, there are so many millions & billions of children around the world and in our own country who need our devotion too.
44
You are way off base...
"Their entire entrapment...entire event was due to bad luck". A man lost his life, unnecessarily!
The coach, budding priest or whatever, was the responsible adult taking non-swimmers,young boys, into a cave, for miles. If you'been in a cave, you should know how compromising and dangerous they are. People lose orientation, spatial sense, direction, in environments often low in oxygen and with cooler temperatures, polluted air. They are slippery, and totally black, thrilling for some, but causing terror for many- even without the drama and events of this circumstance.
1
Thank you. There are reports that the boys went in ( well before any warnings were in effect) and the coach went in to find them and got trapped with them. He kept them alive.
10
Never been a kid to go exploring against common sense. Most kids of 11-16 will explore places that adults consider dangerous, caves, old mine shafts, culverts under roads, etc. Lock all kids up & don’t let them be kids. Classic american logic. I explored as a kid & never worried about flash floods or cave-ins or bats carrying diseases. Yeah, my adults yelled & screamed but hey, I was a kid.
2
Happy ending for sure.
Remaining issues include the absurdity of teenage boys living in a country where water is everywhere and not knowing how to swim.
The coach, after all the hugs, high fives, and media hoopla fade, should be prosecuted for reckless child endangerment.
3
A happy ending most certainly, but I so disagree with the overall tone of your message.
24
What a joyous day! I'm in awe of the Thai rescue operation as well as the international outpouring of compassion and support for the boys, their young coach, and their rescuers. Rest in peace, Saman Gunan.
I suggest taking your cues from the Thai people. Love and forgive. Lessons will be learned; there is no need or use for vengefulness.
14
Amazing and wonderful!
3
“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” (John 15:13) Rest in peace, Saman Gunan.
61
Keep this positive news story on the front page for as long as possible. Celebrate something good today. These boys were just being boys & all you negative people in the US need to stop looking for someone to blame. Evidently you have always meticulously thought out each step outside your door or moving from your chair. These boys are alive, have experienced something that will change them for the better & will be better people for it. The world has experienced something positive today. Keep this in the news as you know who goes to europe to make more enemies. The Day Is Good Today.
51
An example of superior problem-solving skills and cooperative team-work. This is how bad situations are meant to be examined and resolved--and rarely does it happen. Hats off to the Thais.
28
Wonderful - simply wonderful.
It shows resilience of these boys and more important, this young orphan coach keeping them all together in almost pitch darkness.
And of course, heroics of all rescuers and a well managed PR with no one claiming lions share of credit - and shielding these boys and families from a media assault.
Finally, I have learned never to venture in a cave - ever.
19
Hopefully, all openings to this cave will now have metal bars installed and a locked door so that nobody can get in again. What a death trap that cave is!
2
I am risk averse myself, but how do you suppose people learn to be Navy SEALs, search-and-rescuers, mountain climbers, parachutists, scuba divers, firefighters and all other first responders? It's not by armchair quarterbacking.
1
We needed a happy ending and we got it. At least, the kids will get medical and mental health care for their traumatic experience and possible PTSD.
But thanks to the Times for the graphics. We've following the story for weeks without a clear picture of the situation. I expected an animated representation of the cave system, the pertinent locations of interest and details of the rescue.
The whole world followed this story. I'm afraid all we'll take away is more cartoons of Donald Trump.
1
I remember one member of the US Navy SEALs talking on CNN, telling the interviewer how he thought that the Thai SEALs did not have the capability or the preparation to make a rescue without further deaths. I remember another commenter on this page telling people there was "only one Navy SEAL unit in the world" and that the Thais weren't it.
I think those gentlemen owe the Thais a sincere apology.
82
Thank you AJ Garcia. The US is no longer the leader in anything in the world. Other countries have excellent teams & caring people. The Thai Rescue Team is the Best Right Now. Please apologize America. Don't go the way of trump.
7
That is very dishonorable, attacking a group while is is involved in an active rescue.
1
This is the best news since 2016...
20
What consequences will the coach receive? A diver died..., not to mention the 18 days, all the rescue effort...
1
The coach should be celebrated as saving the lives of those kids - I suspect he understood to go higher in the cave to get away from the water. He kept the group together, kept them going thru 10 days of total darkness and unknown outcome - that in itself is true survivor mentality - never give up. He and those kids were just as responsible for the successful outcome as the rescuers themselves.
13
It seems you never work with kids. The unfortunate loss of the diver, it was not intentional. Why your judgment?
7
shouldn't be any consequences. Not everyone looks for someone to blame. Kids will be kids. At least they weren't out stealing guns & shooting up their schools. The coach kept them together, calm, & alive. Stop looking for someone to blame. Be glad they are alive & healthy!!!
14
The result of an amazing effort, bravo to all the heroes who participated in bringing them to safety, and hooray that they can see light of day once again!
3
Where is the concern for the thousands of children separated from their families at our borders by the Trump regime? I'm happy the boys and their coach were rescued, but I am much more concerned about all the children being abused by our government.
21
Thank the Lord they are out of the cave. Now let's get the American continentals whose ancestors have been in the Americas for centuries out of those cages and back with their families. Descendants of European interlopers like Trump who got to the USA starting with his grandfather can rescue them without any risk to their precious snowflakey thin-skinned selves.
Thank goodness also that Obama had nothing to do with the cave rescue; otherwise the toddler- in- chief would be working resolutely to get the soccer team back into the cave. Just waiting for Emperor Donald to take credit for the rescue.
14
All of the Donald's grandparents were born in Europe. Trump does not speak an American language- just a European one (ineptly). The first language of the caged multi generational Americans is often an American language- and many are bilingual that is able to speak an American language and Spanish.
America has been dragged into his monoglot anti-intellectual cave from which there is no chance of escape in the next three weeks. The cave rescue was difficult and heroic but for America to extricate itself from a leader with autocratic and venal tendencies you need at least one Congressional hero to show some heroism and lack of self-interest. Who could that be? McConnell? Jordan? Anyone? The rescued Thais are at least getting gratis medical care. When are Americans going to see that in all other western democracies, universal medical coverage is normal... expected... unquestioned? Meanwhile immigrant Melania is able to afford expensive medical procedures as she recently did. I wonder how Don's bone spurs are going.
4
I'm happy along with most people that these people are safe.
I wonder what would happen if the NYTimes and other media outlets would bring as much attention to the approximately 45,000 US residents who die each year because they can't afford health insurance? If their stories were given as much publicity, would that help to build a consensus for universal health care in the US?
The US spends between 2 1/2 to 4 times more per person on health care than other advanced capitalist countries and we have worse outcomes. These are the kind of facts that have to be repeated as often as other headline or breaking news!
19
Sorry no. This country proved in 2016 that they didn’t & don’t care when they nominated a russian puppet & got him elected. You gave up your right to want anything different. It will only get worse here. At least the small country of Thailand has a reason to be proud of this day & its people.
Such an impressive rescue operation - the epitome of teamwork and bravery.
A lesson for us all.
26
Please let this be a reminder that high-testosterone risk-taking natures can turn towards good or towards ill; there's no inherent evil in the male nature. It's what you do with what you are that matters.
The sort of person who becomes a rescue diver could, with less sense of responsibility and more undisciplined exuberance might be free-climbing, or littering Everest with trash just to say he (or she) made it to the summit.
God bless everyone who volunteered at the risk of life itself to save these boys and their coach. God bless them for choosing to follow a remarkably dangerous vocation and use it for peace and not war.
And remember--in many places of the world, children are dying with no one able or willing to rescue them from extended and unrelenting horror. Thank God 12 children have been restored to their families, and that they have families to be restored to.
17
I hope somebody is able to make a good documentary out of this event. It would be good for the boys and the coach to journal about their experience, maybe do some therapeutic art work to express their likely trauma.
4
It’s exceedingly rare to have good news these days, this is the best news I’ve heard in a long while.
Kudos to all members of the rescue team for getting all the boys and their coach out safely.
Kudos to the coach for keeping the boys calm and their spirits up until rescuers located them and the last boy was out.
That young boys without swimming abilities and prior scuba training made such a treacherous swim safely is a testament to the rescuers’ knowledge and skill. Well done!
29
Some people think it’s a miracle. I believe it’s a testament to the human spirit and people working together to figure out a plan and get it done. Such good news for all involved and for the world that was watching. Good news and hope at a time when we desperately need both.
35
The idea that these children need to be kept separate from their families, after being confined as a large group, for almost 3 weeks under the most unsanitary conditions imaginable, seems absurd. Clearly, extending the trauma suffered by arbitrarily extending the denial of family contact will compound the psychic damage and deepen the PTSD most are likely to experience.
This seems as though it is intended to keep the various petty power-brokers in the media spot light for as long as possible. So many opportunities to be maximized by preventing the media from shifting their focus away from the public officials who have a once in a life-time chance to bask in the global media spotlight. This is an opportunity for self-promotion and ultimate enrichment that will never come their way again.
No point in being concerned with the children's well being or the mental health of the various family members. No path to fame and fortune for the self-important if the media are allowed to turn away from the press conferences & public statements and instead to focus on victims and their families.
1
the boys have seen their families through glass and have been able to speak to them. Keeping them from further illness seems to be the kindest and healthiest action for them. So, contrary to your point, I believe the well being of the children is actually the top priority here. what would be a tragedy is if any of the boys developed an infection that could kill because of a lack of caution.
18
I believe this has been covered, well. the community explores the caves regularly, and it is my understanding that members of the team have been in the caves before. what happened was an unexpected heavy rain which typically occurs later in the summer. that is what the danger signs say. by all accounts, the coach's actions - leading the boys to higher ground, keeping them calm and meditative, is what allowed them to survive so long. accidents truly do happen. If the parents and community can "forgive" the coach, then far be it for me to judge any differently.
21
amt, I am sure your best wishes for the children are sincere. However, I sense that you under value the benefits of normalicy and family contact. From what has been reported, none of the obscure diseases that a quarantine can help control have been detected, nor have the biological vectors generally associated with their transmission.
Given the fact that almost 100 volunteers have been exposed to the fecal stew that comprises the contents of the flood waters in the cave, an effective quarantine would confine all cave visitors. At least all who entered the water in the cave system. Obviously, that is too difficult and too expensive. No real benefit in expanding the charade to such a scale.
1
I hope to see them at the World Cup final in Russia and so does the whole World. What a story with a beautiful ending.
11
Great news. The human spirit to help survive despite all odds is evident in this true life tale. Cheers to the rescuers and their “keeping trying “efforts.
14
New Motto: "Thailand. Where We Actually Reunite Children With Their Parents"
56
I'm deeply moved by how a whole nation, it seems, and many skilled professionals from around the world came together to save these children and their coach.
Do please remember though, that Thailand, peaceful Buddhist country, is a prime location for sex tourism and every year, many many underage girls and boys, trafficked by some of the most vicious people ever to claim the status of "human being," are sold in 15 minute segments throughout the day to men who travel there expressly for the opportunity. Thailand is also a refuge for pedophiles who find their dollars go far and let them settle down in fields of plenty as it were.
There are no saintly nations.
3
Such a stellar accomplishment! It also shines as an example of how quickly our humanity can bond us in a crisis. If only our government would stop creating crises that are intractable and divisive — there are enumerable problems to be solved without creating more in the process.
7
Perhaps it’s a bit too head-in-the-sand, but I wish this story and others that show the best of the human spirit could spend more time right at the very top of the news page....
19
Many thanks to the NYT for providing such thorough and timely coverage on this compelling story. What a fantastic outcome!
24
Best news in a long time.
Made possible by teamwork, determination, sacrifice and science.
41
Great news!
How long until Trump opens his big bazoo to take credit for it?
14
We have been transfixed by the herculean rescue efforts and the team and their coach's ordeal, just as we were in 2010 when the Chilean miners were rescued. We have learned about the Thai community, the thti king and their great faith and religion.
Mainstream news has been respectful and informative.
this is such good news to read today. May all these young men make a strong recovery.
24
You're right -- and yet I cannot help but be inspired by this story. It is wonderful what can be done when there is will and cooperation, and we need to see it once in a while to get us through the more common reminders of human failure.
7
Great news. But somehow it was Trump's doing, right? It had to be. Nothing happens that is good without Trump.
6
OMG, better newa still! That awful cave is now empty!!
4
Now if only the Times (and other news sources) would give equal coverage to the millions of children -- refugees, victims of war, etc. -- whose lives are in danger every day! If every dozen of them got the same attention and help as the Thai soccer team, the Times would be about nothing else and the world would be a humane place.
7
Hallelujah!
11
So glad to hear the good news! I hope there has been no permanent damage to anyone's health. Extra love sent to the coach.
17
This certainly is wonderful news. And I don't mean to dampen it in any way. However, I am not certain why "extra love" sent to the coach. Will we get an explanation as to why he led those boys into that dangerous area despite warning signs not to go?
2
Wow! It looked pretty dire. Kudos to all. This one for the history books.
14
Wonderful news. A gift not only to Thailand but to the world. Am just so very glad and relieved.
7
Finally, some good news graces the lead story in the Times this morning! Yes a mistake was made by going into the cave in the first place, and a valuable lesson has been learned. How wonderful that they are all out, and congratulations to the many, many heroes who made this daring and dangerous rescue possible.
5
Perhaps America and its so-called president can take some lessons from this heartwarming story of doing what's right, uniting and taking care of each other instead of pointing fingers, dividing and attacking those in need.
Start with some back story on one of the boys, Ardoon Sam-aon, as reported last week:
"Ardoon was born in neighboring Myanmar. The young soccer player was taken into care by the local Mae Sai Grace Church group when he was seven years old, the school's director Punnawit Thepsurin says.
"He's a good student, he earns a GPA of 3.94 out of 4.00. He's also a good athlete, his favorite sports are soccer and volley ball. He's very known and liked. He's a champion," Thepsurin says.
It's not unusual for families to cross the border to search for work or go to school. Many in Mae Sai are members of minority groups, such as the Akka and Thai Lue, whose communities sit at the crossroads of the two countries.
Thepsurin has traveled to the entrance of the caves every night since the boys' disappearance hoping for news of his star pupil. "From this event, we can see all Thai people care for each other," he says confidently.
"No matter where we are from, or what religion or race we are. We gather together giving each support," he adds.
Ardoon's parents have since crossed into Thailand to join other families at the entrance to the cave network, where they await news from authorities."
17
These parents would have been arrested on site for showing up outside the cave if this had been an american story. Shame on the US.
The only really bad part of this I can think of, besides the one rescuer's death of course, is that it elevates the Thai military; which already has too much power in the country and is eroding what is left of its democracy.
5
Congratulations Thailand on a perfect rescue! The world is relieved and celebrating your success. Wishing health to all the boys and their coach.
8
I hope that Saman Gunan, the diver who gave his life in the rescue effort, will not be forgotten during this time of joy and reunion.
21
I woke up to this news this morning. God is good! I am happy to finally read about the goodness of mankind and their ability to use their innate goodness for the service of others.
11
What a professional and excellent job by the rescuers! By the way, when I saw the contraption put together by Elon Musk and friends, I could not help to think, man, you have to solve the given problem; not change the problem to fit the solution. Anyway, stay out of caves!
1
Wow. Great job, divers and team.
4
I read there was a warning sign on the entrance to that cave about not entering during the rainy season; yet the coach led those kids in. He should be held responsible for this mess...
2
What a welcome change from the usual run of news these days -- look what can happen when there is national AND international cooperation in the face of a real crisis.
5
A big sigh of relief, obviously. The, "coach," should now plan another outing for the boys, swimming in hurricane surf, skydiving, mountain climbing? My question is simply, why were they there in the first place? Safety, at any age, is number one. The coach was irresponsible as the adult in supervision, at the cost of a human life. This is a lesson in the absence of common sense.
3
Humans make mistakes. And i don't know any 25-year-old that has not made at least one mistake that could have had life-altering consequences. In hindsight it is obvious that there was a risk of flooding, and they did walk past a warning sign. But maybe before they went in it was a clear, sunny day, with no chance of rain in the forecast. We weren't there, so let's not be too quick to assume that we might not have had a similar lack of judgment under the circumstances.
11
This is the best news!! Rivited to this story in hope and so happy all has ended well!! Great Work to all concerned! Amazing effort. So well done!
6
Happy that this made top of the fold. A great story and nothing to do with POTUS
11
Cool! Now let's rescue the children of the families seeking asylum that were separated from their families!
Oh, and when they are freed, let's go clean up the dumb plastic in the water! This is so exciting! I love it when we collaborate! It's like we found our spirit.
12
I think the most revealing part of this development is a more meta point: Why is it, among all the tragedies unfolding in real-time in the world, that the media decides this particular story should have this level of devotion? If the NYT is "all the news fit to print," then this clarifies that the "news" nowadays is more along the lines of infotainment than pragmatically covering what developments are most consequential and affect larger populations. I'm not saying we shouldn't become emotionally involved in what the media deems an important headline, but from a pragmatic and utilitarian perspective I would rather focus on, say, innocent Yemenis children being starved and killed for imperialist endeavors...although I understand it's a rather worn-out topic and lacks dramatic suspense...maybe if they were trapped in a cave.
1
"Infotainment"??? It was close to being a horrific tragedy. Maybe you had to have been there.
2
Of course, 13 people were killed by gun violence in Chicago this weekend. 200 Africans died from starvation yesterday. Today a Yemenis child is clinging to life after being hit with shrapnel. Do you see what I mean? This world is full of tragedies caused by deliberate systemic oppression. Yes, at some point you can’t be infinitely relativistic when it comes to tragedies, at some point attention has to be focused on one thing. One on hand you have killings, on the other, people trapped. My point is why this, over that, and the only explanation is, 1. It doesn’t threaten corporate power and 2. It’s engaging.
Certainly a wonderful miracle! Yet I can’t help but be struck by the contrast with the indifference shown to so many of the world’s children who need help, starting with those seeking refuge at our borders.
7
Ethnically, the hill tribes of this region are more closely related to the hill tribes on the other side of the border in Burma than they are to ethnic Thais.
Long before the arrival of Buddhism and forced conversion, for thousands of years, the locals have practised Shamanic religion based upon worshipping the jealous Goddess whose domain is the caves.
Boys from the local ethnic group, who have entered puberty, as part of their initiation into manhood have been entering the caves and carving their names into the rock faces in the dark since the beginning of time. Many boys have disappeared, never to be seen again.
From his name, it's clear that Petty Officer First Class Saman Kunan was not an ethnic Thai. Kunan is a Kashmiri last name. Saman Kunan was a handsome, fearless warrior and an athlete. When the Goddess of the Caves set eyes on him, swimming through her domain, immediately she was captivated by his beauty and his bravery. She became determined to make him her consort through all eternity.
So she went to him in a dream and offered him a choice – his life for that of the twelve boys and their coach. Immediately, without hesitation, Kunan agreed.
And now the Bodhisattva Saman Kunan lives with his divine consort, guiding her in her ways. During the day they occupy the caves. But at night they live among the stars.
19
I'm so relieved, and thrilled, that the rescue was successful.
I will now devote attention to finding a restaurant where I can get some Thai pork barbecue.
Amazing, and good news in a time of incessant bad news.
8
Now let's have a rescue operation with the same effort all the immigrant kids who are still separated from their parents.
3
Now that the Thai government has successfully reunited the boys with their families, perhaps they can do the same for the children taken from their families by the Trump administration, here.
17
Sorry you had to politicize and "Americanize" this story.
Great news...but Trump must be miffed because this story is getting bigger headlines than his predictable pick of an ultra-conservative Justice.
10
I was thinking the same thing. It's stealing his thunder. I could not WAIT to read this story!
4
Thank goodness for those English Divers who found them...what incredible men ...what heroes...they brought them out to safety as well.
Also the Aussie doctor who stayed with them.
Thailand are going to support England in the World Cup for finding the boys...COME ON ENGLAND ...DO IT FOR THE LADS.
5
I question the editorial decision to make this human interest story front page news for a week, as if the fate of the world rested on the outcome.
The Syrian War - to use but one example of many global tragedies - claimed the lives of at least 350,000 people, and displaced 180,000 children. Yet this cannot be neatly packaged into a Stop the Presses, Feel Good Story.
This Cave Story is akin to a cat stuck in a tree - easy to care about because it makes no demands on us, and does not require any thought beyond the superficial.
But why does a story like this required minute by minute coverage while many other children throughout the world face death by starvation, war, or disease each and every grinding day?
Well, Space Needle....we've been hearing about the Syrian War for years now, almost every day, and it's something we can not do anything about because of horrible political leaders....but this story about the boys reaches our hearts, because we can do something about it, and we did... we meaning the Thai leader and backed by his country and the world... . and not killing his countrymen to achieve the goal. It was good "humanism" ; heroic "humanism" and with no reward except life.
3
@Space needle...It's a big story and those boys, their coach, the divers, all became stuck in our hearts just like the cat in a tree In a sense, like the woman who found her fields under water said it's all right, They are my children. Now they are the world's children.
2
With much sympathy to Khun Saman's family. May you focus on the act of selfless compassion that took his life rather than your loss, to the extent you're able.
5
I'm utterly shocked our Sociopath In Chief has not taken credit yet. "I was actually one of the rescue divers. Secret mission, folks. Secret Mission."
9
GO WILD BOARS!
1
Simply Wonderful!
2
If you save a world
when you save a life
the Thai Navy Seals
have saved a universe.
Bless them all.
27
I am thrilled by this outcome. Deep down, I never thought these young boys and their coach would survive their ordeal in the cave for such a long time or many rescue attempts of the equivalency of "climbing Mt. Everest underwater".
Never have I felt so happy to be so wrong!!! What an incredible feeling.
RIP Saman Gunan - may you and your actions always be remembered and honored.
11
I am glad that all of the boys were rescued, but it's unfortunate that it cost one diver his life. I am less ecstatic than others are about this story as I think entering the caves was reckless given there was a sign that warned people not to enter. That said, I hope all the attention this story got will help prevent situations like this from happening again and that all of the boys are able to live healthy lives.
3
Miracle at the Chiang Rai caves. Salute to the rescue team heroes. Congratulations to the survivors. The word survival stands defined today.
1
I could hardly read the ongoing news about this, fearing the outcome. My heart ached as they were so young. Today, good news and hope they recover without any problems. It was cute to read how many boys promised to do their chores once they were out. Maybe Mom will excuse them; I know I would. So glad for their safety.
3
These twelve boys and one young man are only a tiny speck in the realm of humanity here on earth needing compassion and help. The heroic rescue effort has been a huge statement of heart. People risked their lives, one lost his life, everyone was pulling for these boys, many were praying. The world was in this as one, we felt our human connection. I wish the world, together, would do more to approach other people in need with this brand of compassion. Kindness matters.
6
I am reeling from the the constant bad news, but this is such a wonderful end of story..Best wishes to the 13 trapped and much thanks to the all who worked to free them.
6
what a tremendous relief! when I read that the military folks were still in the cave - I was aghast! Congratulations all involved and thank you - for a speedy rescue!
1
Happy tears amidst so much that seems to otherwise swirl around us. May there recovery be as smooth as possible.
1
Sorry--their recovery. And yes gratitude and deep sympathies for the loved ones of the brave diver that gave his life and much appreciation for all the incredible rescue team.
1
While we celebrate this most incredible rescue, let’s pause for just a moment in honor of the brave diver who lost his life while trying to rescue the team.
14
Tears in my eyes, typing this... For the first time in as long as I can remember, I looked forward to reading some potentially uplifting news! The rescuers... makes my heart happy!
16
Wonderful!!! I'll always remember this touching and victorious human story!
10
Happy news to start the day!
Something to feel good about, be proud about, and to rejoice over.
It’s stories like this that give me continued hope for humanity.
Thank you, and congratulations, to every single solitary soul involved in this amazing rescue mission. Your incredible efforts simply cannot be overstated.
23
Today, let us give thanks and rejoice.
These boys and their coach have been rescued. A multinational effort driven by expertise and character made this outcome possible. The rescue team was determined, heroic, and highly trained. The boys and their coach were resilient and optimistic.
Sometimes, this world is a sad place, but today we got a reason to celebrate.
13
The best news in a long time. Cheers!, Bravo! and Huzzah! to all involved. All are heroic. I'm sorry one life was lost.
8
Let's give a special shout-out to the coach who led the boys deeper and deeper into the cave until they found high ground, gave his food to the boys, taught them to meditate and took other actions to keep them alive until rescuers could find them.
Amazing.
73
I'm glad skill and determination won the day. Rather than the space lasers boring through mountains or Elon Musk teleporting them as suggested by so many of us armchair diagnosticians.
6
I'm practically choked up. Such an immense relief and an absolutely astounding display of bravery, skill, expertise, endurance, hard work and determination. I'm so happy for the families, too!
To quote the diver who first found the boys: BRILLIANT!
29
This has been a truly heartwarming example of how much can be accomplished when people come together for a good cause, and a reminder that every day, away from the spotlight, lots of people are doing good, selfless work - first responders, doctors, scientists, government personnel, and others.
I am overjoyed that these 13 got out safely, sad that Saman Gunan didn't make it, and truly inspired and touched by the people all over the world who came together and risked their own lives to get these 13 out. Bravo!
25
It has been humbling and inspiring to watch these events unfold in the last few weeks. Thank you to the rescuers who so worked so hard to get these boys and their coach out, especially the one who gave his life for it. Thank you for reminding us how much can be accomplished when we work together and find solutions to seemingly impossible situations. Thank you to the Thai people and government for showing us that it is not about ego, money or ideology, it is about the human condition we all share.
13
When it is all said and done, humanity is crafted from kindness, goodness and caring for others. An uplifting story for our times of the obession of self.
31
Thank God, the commitment of all the heroes who gave their time and expertise, and may the memory of the lost SEAL diver be for a blessing.
The world has waited for you breathlessly, children.
8
Some comments here challenge the 25 year old coach's decisions. Reports elsewhere, I think via the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, say that this coach was the weakest of the lot, when removed, because he had given his food to the boys during the days before supplies were brought to them all. This is far too soon to be disparaging anyone involved; from so far away we cannot possess any special knowledge. The doctor and the four Thai navy SEALS are now reported out and safe. Thankfulness and great respect are certainly due them all.
17
"Twelve Boars and coach are out of the cave. Everyone is safe. Now we are waiting to welcome our frogmen”
Actually, this is no such thing as a "Frog Man" - we breath air, and only air. Which is why, as soon as the remaining four rescuers are out, 1000 concrete trucks should be brought in to seal all of the cave entrances up forever.
One brave rescuer died in this mission - the concrete trucks are the only way to make sure he is the last to do so.
People don't belong in wretched cave passages; and especially so, if their lives depend on fragile breathing apparatus.
The rescuers were magnificent, but this should never happen again.
5
If that were the case, we'd have to pour concrete in every crevice and over Mt. Everest to boot. Nature has nothing to do with the choices humans make. Leave the earth alone, we do enough damage as it is. Thankful, humbled and have such respect for this amazing group of rescuers. Heartbroken for the NAVY Seal who lost his life, giving his all for them. May the boys and their coach recover fully and be able to hug and be hugged by their loved ones soon.
4
A great lesson to learn from Rescue mission of the Thai football team of 13.The international community converged and the dare,consciousness,persistence and endurance of the British divers need commendation at the UNO. All others who planned and worked to get every one out should be rewarded. One who lost life to save the kids should be recognized and his family be supported in all aspects.Instead of building bombs to destroy humanity out of ego or false pride the world leaders should work to build devices to protect every life. Confrontation must be met with love,cooperation and peace. So is the word of all divine powers.
4
Why does Thailand need navy SEALs?
Why do we?... Exactly.
1
Possibly because they have over 3000 km of coastline, pirates in the Andaman Sea and Muslim terrorists in the deep south of the country who are responsible for over 5000 deaths in the last 10 years. Just a thought.
2
@Richard
Better question would be - what if Thailand DIDN'T have Navy SEALS? Would the outcome have been the same or more deadly and disastrous? I for one my grateful for these guys and their skills and training.
RIP Saman Gunan, 38-year-old former Navy SEAL.
3
The 2018 World Cup winner is not France or Belgium or England or Croatia. It’s the Wild Boars, the divers and all human beings with a heart.
53
And the Thai Navy Seals.
3
Great news! Very interesting about how homosapiens have such an inability to swim.
Thank you God!
5
This is such good news. Congratulations to the rescuers and the rescued. Yes!
8
I have been watching the nation as we fly apart at the seams, unable to agree on anything, unable and unwilling to try.
I imagine others share my joy at the obvious dedication, sacrifice, cooperation, thinking, planning and ultimately heroic action in an effort to save this group of mostly children from an extracted, desperate and painful death by suffocation. People put their lives on the line. And likely their egos and politics and personal agendas too. Because without jettisoning all the worst that people can carry with them, they would not have been able to pump water, build a dam, search the cave, find the team, get medical assistance to them, map the cave with guide ropes, place replenishment tanks along the route, devise a plan to get young non-swimmers through terrifying flooded passages, and act on that plan successfully.
Every now and then the news shows us what we can achieve when we are at our best, instead of what we do achieve when we are at our worst.
21
Great Stuff !!!
2
The Thai government should name the cave in honor of Saman Gunan, the former Navy SEAL who volunteered and died trying to save the team and its coach.
5
One question which apparently has gone unasked:
What was the team doing deep in a cabe that apparently is difficult to access in the dry seasons, let alone in the middle of monsoon season?
A question ALSO not asked about why Thai parents don’t teach kids how to swim:
Water can be the home of many deadly microbes and large parasites - the warmer the environment, and the lower the level of sewage processing, along with periodic floods washing human and animal waste into water increase chances. What is the risk in the region from swimming in, or drinking untreated lake/river water?
Everybody’s been reporting this through the lens of: a desire to read good news, quadrennial world soccer mania, when even in the US, ‘it’s more important than life or death - it’s football’, and the plain old silly season, when important news is oft hard to find.
Last question should SEAL be Seal, or do the letters mean something like ‘Special Weapons And Tactics’ so well known that it’s SWAT on first reference? Sorry, this is a quad-letter-acronym (QLA) that most folks understand as a concept but not by meaning. Or is it the same error that leads writers to capitalize all the letters of Israel’s Mossad, a word not an acronym.
The rescue story, insignificant in light of the insanities shaking the national and world governments, seems wonderful, though we don’t know how badly damaged it will leave the survivors.
Even little furry animals can have big sharp teeth - so what’s the whole story?
1
Honestly if I was I’m that cave I would not know how to survive because your stuck there with no food,no water no anything.I would not know how to even breath if you have anxiety or some type of illness it’s not fair I’m so glad that all 12 boys and the coach got out of there safely and their getting treated and going to the hospital.
3
Glad that the ordeal is finally over for the soccer team on a positive note. It would have been a more perfect ending if the retired Thai Navy SEAL had not lost his life. Hope he is well remembered and taken care as well.
5
Humanity trumps hatred every time.
18
A beacon, for all those who are trapped.
6
Tremendous rescue effort and result. Not so much for the writing and editing here. "Extraction effort?" Come on. Leave military speak for military paperwork. "Rescue" is a fine, simple and accurate word.
4
So many emotions right now:
Thrilled that the boys and their coach are safely out. Hooyah!
Anxious for the doctor and the remaining divers in the cave. It's not over until they're safely out too.
Moved by the tweet from the football club AS Roma, which alongside its congratulatory message honoured the late diver Saman Kunan and posted his photo.
Proud that the British club Manchester United has extended an invitation to the boys to visit Old Trafford. I hope they take up the offer...Manchester is a fantastic city with a big heart. They'll get a wonderful welcome!
And of course, humbled by the bravery and determination of all those involved in the rescue effort, and the spirit of co-operation and generosity that has been the overriding feature of this operation.
13
AMAZING!: literally and figuratively, thank God -- working through extraordinary human beings!
Would I sound like an anti-adventurous couch potato to say I dearly hope someone obstructs that long and treacherous tunnel to nowhere? One man died in this rescue. It was only due to numberless heroes and one fatality that it wasn't a nightmare to countless more individuals and entire families. We can all breathe again, World!
3
The "long and treacherous tunnel to nowhere" is what saved the boys when the cave began to flood.
1
This week, I was most interested in the article titled "Thai Cave Rescue Live Updates: All 13 Are Free After Weeks of Ordeal". After watching this story develop for the past several weeks, I pieced together a stronger outlook on the situation each and every day. While I have never personally been trapped in a flooded cave, I can imagine how terrifying that would be. It was clearly a frightening experience even for the rescuers that were trained to do exactly what this situation called for. An eighteen day long rescue mission will play an impact on anybody, no matter their position. It is truly a miracle that the twelve boys and their coach have been officially rescued. On top of that, it is also incredible that there was only one death throughout the entire ordeal. The fact that the death wasn't one of the people trapped in the cave for weeks on end is nearly unimaginable. Moreover, it is inspiring to see so many people come together and work with one another to save the trapped soccer team. The whole operation also brought the community surrounding the soccer team together as well. The article states, "In the town of Mae Sai, where the trapped boys’ soccer team is based, residents and family members were cheering at the sound of every helicopter and ambulance they heard, in an uproar of celebration." The whole community came together during this time of stress and great difficulty, and the idea of helping one another through such a traumatic time is a beautiful concept.
4
Ingenuity; fearlessness; grit and no small amount of luck!
So glad you are all safe!
1
A ray of light!
I do not know what the American obsession ( some Americans' obsession) is with finding someone to blame - - - there isn't alway someone at fault for life's problems -- or, perhaps we can see that we are all "at fault" as humans, ....
It is a wonderful outcome, thanks to the skill and bravery of those involved. The Wild Boars themselves have had a brush with death and survived, maybe giving them something of value to pass on in their own lives.
Are all young people not as valuable?
8
Blame and litigation is a very western thing. The Thais, and Buddhists, in general, seem less incline to find fault. Several of the parents have outright said that they don't blame the coach. Regardless of how they got into the cave, CBS reported that the coach gave all his food and water to the kids. As a result, he was one of the sickest victims.
6
Great job Thai rescuers. Every life is precious and each and everyone trapped being rescued is a significant accomplishment that will be admired and remembered for a long time.
8
I am so happy for the release of these children and their coach.
While the world was riveted on their face, our own government has well over 2000 children, both younger and older than these, locked up without access to their parents or other loved ones. Stories coming out of the detention centers suggest that not only are they being held in harsh conditions, some have even been physically abused.
Please focus some attention on these children too - let all detained be released from horrible circumstances!!!
23
My thoughts exactly. This story had a happy ending albeit one heroic, tragic loss of life. But while we in America have been transfixed by this story; meanwhile overlooking that some 2,000 children are in our country being treated very shabbily.
10
Science and technology will always be my shiny beacon, but, if one was looking for a reason to believe, this might be the sign.
Welcome home, boys. We've ALL been waiting for you.
8
In this time of such blatant selfishness and greed, where evil is daily seen to triumph, we were all united in hope. We all remembered our possibility for unselfish giving of all we have to bring about a greater good. We braced for the worst, imagining the claustrophobia and darkness, the difficult breathing, the seemingly insurmountable odds of ever getting out. But a small candle, a little light in the darkness. People of many nations uniting in belief and extraordinary, particularly skill, gradually piecing together the solution plan... and one by one, bringing them back to the light.
As we experience the collective joy, we remember the one diver who gave his all but did not survive the absolute demands of the overwhelming requirements. He is a true, extraordinary, everyday hero.
We are grateful to be reminded that sometimes there is an almost-happy ending.
11
So happy for the boys and their families. Good job all around. Condolences to the family of the diver that list his life.
6
In a world of bad news, this rescue effort reminds us of the best of humanity: people of different nationalities, languages, gender, and background coming together to risk and sacrifice their lives for the children of strangers. The contrast with ICE and this administration should shame us all.
7
The "frogmen" are princes.
Congratulations to all involved, and condolences to the family and friends of the brave SEAL who lost his life assisting in this amazing rescue.
8
A warm thank you to all who helped in this effort. This is what REAL Leaders do. Period. We could certainly use a bit of this in DC.
5
This is the only really good news on the front page. Congratulations to the Thai authorities, their Navy SEALs and all the many volunteers in rescuing the boys trapped in a highly dangerous situation. Perhaps they can come here and help rescue the innocent children held in inhumane conditions and also reunite them with their families. It seems the Trump administration needs such help.
17
Great news. Congratulations and best lucks.
Back to the USA, thousands of migrant children are still trapped in Trump's evil caves. What's a tragedy and humiliation.
4
This is such wonderful news! What a great way to start the day - hearing such fantastic news!
7
My take away for this incredible effort and accomplishment in the name of preserving life for a future is the selflessness and altruism of humanity. It begs the question of DT and The Republican Party “With the full power of the US Govt at your disposal, why can’t you find and promptly return the children of refugees seeking asylum, to their parents”? What a stain on your reign.
22
God is good!! I'm so happy to hear this fantastic news. Now, the real works begins of recovering from whatever illnesses has afflicted them.
4
When all this dies down do you think that they will prosecute the group leader who procured this mess?
1
No. Hiking into that cave is common practice. People make mistakes.
Do you think he’s not been punished enough for a bad decision?
3
Probably not. Thais, and Buddhists, in general, are not as litigious as we are in the West. According to one of the articles, entering the caves is common for kids, and one classmates said that they knew the interior map well. Apparently, they were celebrating a player's birthday. The problem seems to be the unexpected rain, which flooded the path before they got out. As for the coach, I'm not sure how culpable he is but according to CBS news, he sacrificed his own health by giving the boys all his own food and water. As a result, he was one of the sickest victims. Regardless, many of the parents have openly said that they don't blame the coach. Yes, a life was lost and a lot of money was spent, but I don't think the government wants to turn a feel-good story into one of criminality. I'm sure the coach will offer a heartfelt apology and the Thais will take this as a lesson learned, e.g. to close the caves earlier in the season.
3
Thank you, Kim.
1
"A blunder is worse than a crime."
- Talleyrand
I'm so happy for the Wild Boars and their coach! Now praying for the three divers and doctor who are on their way. What heroism and incredible planning on the parts of all involved in this rescue.
11
Such great news!! Big kudos to all the heroes who worked tirelessly to bring these boys out alive!!! It's truly amazing. So nice to see some good news with a happy ending.
1
I hope they evacuate their divers, especially the doctor, in time! With the glare of publicity off, they still must not forget their own people.
5
Incredible news! But my heart goes out to the family of the courageous Thai Navy Seal who lost his life trying to save these children and coach.
5
“We are not sure if this is a miracle, a science, or what. All the thirteen Wild Boars are now out of the cave.”
It is all the above, and a lesson in what humans can do if banded together in a positive common cause.
As someone once observed, “you are at your best when things are at their worst.”
5
You have shown us what humanity can be. Thank you
8
I'm not the praying type, but THANK GOD! (If some other entity deserves the credit, then thank whoever it is -- maybe the Thai Navy Seals with some benign help from the Great CPA in the Sky, whoever she is).
12
Why, exactly why would an adult lead 12 kids down into a cave?
3
Um, because cave exploration is a fairly common and incredibly interesting activity? Thousands of people, including kids, engage in said activity safely and this situation was the result of an emergent weather event? It even has a name-- spelunking.
Why, exactly why would an adult bother to write a comment on a public forum without doing an ounce of thinking first, instead attributing ill motives to another person based on 20-20 hindsight?
7
Because people, including kids, hike in that cave. It’s not always full of water.
4
Accidents happen. Tragedy happens. Much better a coach that takes his team to explore caves than a coach that takes his team to Chuck E Cheese’s.
3
What GREAT news!
This proves to me my premise that human beings are, deep in their soul, Good People who care about others. Thanks to the rescuers who put their lives on the line to save the boys.
There IS hope. Hold that thought, Good People, and fight like hell to win the war against the evil that is pervading OUR world, sponsored by the most insatiably greedy inherited/stolen wealth Robber Barons since Genghis Khan.
9
I give far more thought and planning to an overnight hiking trip on the Appalachian Trail, near my upstate New York home, than this soccer coach appeared to give to herding a group of adolescent boys, with no other adult supervision and pathetically inadequate supplies or preparation, into a cave. The first thing I think about is, do I have the gear, water and food to survive for a day or two if I am injured and have to wait to be evacuated from the trail? How is it that this adult gave far less thought to a far more dangerous situation?
I'm glad they are all safe, but I would love to stop hearing about this soccer coach's reliance on meditation and more about what accountability, if any, he will be held to for getting into a jam that cost a rescuer his life and will have lasting traumatic effect on many of these boys.
11
A few days ago, I really didn't think this saga was going to end well. I am in complete awe of the courage, bravery, humility, faith and compassion shown by the children, their families and the amazing rescue teams. This is truly a story for the ages.
49
That the rescue team could show us the best of humanity at a time when its worst is in our face every day was a much needed gift.
May every SEAL, every diving doctor, every volunteer who dropped what they were doing half a province away or half a world away to join the effort know that the grateful include not only the rescued and their families, but the entire world as well.
And may the 13 go on to bless themselves and those around them with lives well lived. I'm so, so happy you made it out.
62
I truly hope we hear about the meditation training that the young coach did with his team and how that helped them (if it did) to stay calm and centered.
24
... and use up less of the cave's precious oxygen.
3
This is great news for the boys and their coach. However, a man DIED trying to help them get out of the cave. I still don't understand what the football team was doing inside a cave so close to rainy season. With global warming perhaps the cave should be closed for a longer period of time during the year. And access to the cave for groups of children should be subject to application and supervision.
6
They entered the cave a week before the official start of the rainy season, which doesn’t seem like it should have been all that risky.
But perhaps the rainy season does start earlier now than it used to...
12
The caves are part of a national park that was open for business at the time of their trek.
This walk through the caves is something the team does every year. It was tradition to write their names on a cave wall.
If you want to blame someone - maybe the government or administration running the park site. Was this absolutely foreseeable? I do not think so.
4
There are daily weather forecasts in Thailand too. Just like we can get a hurricane or blizzard before the official season starts. Paying attention is the first step in preparation.
"Thai Cave Live Updates: All 13 Are Free After Weeks of Ordeal" provides a behind-the-scenes look on a rescue mission encircling the matters of life and death. It was announced on Tuesday morning that 12 members of a Thai youth soccer team and their 25-year-old coach were rescued after being trapped for over two weeks inside of a flooded cave. Against all odds, such as low oxygen rates within the caverns and the inability for the team to swim, acts of mercy and kindness prevailed. To see a story where efforts are made from all over the world to salvage the lives of young men with a lot to live for is truly heartwarming. One encouraging act that I admired took place last Wednesday when miner Mario Sepulveda, one of the 33 survivors of the famed San Jose mine rescue in 2010, released a video message dedicated to the trapped boys. The video reminded them to stay strong and sent them prayers out to the team and their families. Sepulveda addressing the team demonstrates unity that we rarely see in a world of conflicting opinions and arguments. Seeing a man who experienced a similar situation express gratitude for the young men is very uplifting. People all across the world uniting around the youth soccer team throughout their treacherous journey is an extraordinary reminder that as human beings, if we care, love, and cherish one another through times of hardship, we can overcome all obstacles lying ahead.
17
Gandhi famously said- and I paraphrase:
To make change we must move the heart.
While it's clear that there are leaders right now with cold hearts, in this moment, by the collective actions of many, the heart of the world grew warmer. I'm praying that it has a lasting effect, by inspiring the realization, that by coming together, patiently working with the facts, and division of the common good, we can accomplish what is needed.
Thank you to the thousands involved, for imagining & accomplishing this rescue.
May the physical and psychological recovery of the boys & coach go as well as this did.
29
Correction: a "vision" of the common good.
Great news.
But when and where and by whom can the adult or adults who almost made a deadly mess be held accountable?
Soccer and spelunking are not the same.
3
According to one of the articles, entering the caves is common for the kids, and one classmates said that they knew the interior map well. Apparently, they were celebrating a player's birthday. The problem seems to be the unexpected rain, which flooded the path before they got out.
As for the coach, I'm non sure how culpable he is but according to CBS news, he sacrificed his own health by giving the boys all his food and water. As a result, he was one of the sickest victims. Regardless, many of the parents have openly said that they don't blame the coach.
6
I believe I read that this was a cave they were familiar with and it was an annual tradition to go in at the end of the season to write their names on the wall.
The entered a week before the start of the rainy season. I’m not sure anyone did anything wrong here.
1
The law protects our youth. What parents feel and say does not matter about the coach. A lack of honorable moral character endangers all.
1
An impossible situation getting worse each day, MaGyver-like solutions, an international, collaborative effort, young kids, success. I just love this story! We need more of them.
9
Great that this turned out--a little brightness amid the gloom; something that looked bad had a great outcome. Respect to the divers and those in support roles who made this success possible!
18
Note that this effort to rescue was a human effort of logistics, scientific considerations of how to rescue, and took many people to unselfishly work on this together. There were no monetary gains nor did any god help these boys. Let's recognize these secular humanitarian efforts as an example of how effective people can be when selfishness and unhelpful calls to god are left out.
61
Granted, science and logical thinking were fundamental to these rescues. Note, however, that from your scientific and logical perspective, you cannot prove that "nor any god" helped these boys. You are only positing--there is no way you can test your assertion. Furthermore, who is to say that the united human spirit and its collective logical thinking are not part of god, if god is defined as an all-encompassing universal force? Focused energy can move subatomic particles and mountains and can produce monumental rescues.
Really awesome news. Kudos to all involved. Makes me so happy. Nice to have a positive outcome and some good news for a change.
27
Like much of the world I was praying for these boys and their coach. I am so grateful and relieved they were all saved! These boys, all so young, seemed remarkably poised throughout this entire harrowing ordeal. They and their coach were an impressive group. I am sorry for the loss of the Thai Navy diver and send condolences to his family. He was a brave and honorable man. Kudos to all involved in the rescue effort! You are the best of the best!
Call me cynical but now that we can breathe a sigh of relief and can bask, even momentarily, in this positive feeling, how long do you think it will be before the American made-for-TV movie comes out and ruins it?
12
Like everyone, I am thrilled that the boys and their coach survived and are out of the cave. On Facebook I saw a video from Thai television which showed them using a totally different method of extracting the boys from what has been depicted in US and U.K. newspapers. The video showed the boys on stretchers being pulled and pushed through narrow stretches. Unfortunately, I don’t speak Thai, so I couldn’t understand the voice of the narrator.
It would make more sense for weak boys who don’t even know how to swim to be brought out this way. There were two divers manipulating the stretcher through narrow places. The video didn’t show this, but there are areas in the cave which are above the water level. Two men could easily carry a boy on an aluminum stretcher over these areas.
Looks like the people reporting on the rescue were speculating or basing their reporting on out of date plans. Hopefully we will now find out how the rescue was really effected.
8
Best news for Months !!! Thanks to everyone involved in this glorious outcome. Kids, stay out of caves. Seriously.
25
Good luck with that, Phyllis. Kids will always be kids. Spoken as a person who once was one, and got hopelessly stuck inside a small wooden doghouse with the boy next door, I guarantee it. There was no spectacular rescue, just an irritated father who had to unscrew the roof to get us out.
2
I'm happy for these boys but the NYT coverage of this story has far far exceeded its importance
Completely disagree. This is one of the best human interest stories in ages! And it is very welcome.
25
In my world, this story certainly exceeded in importance the other pedestrian stories in the NYT. To demonstrate the heights humankind can fly at a time when all we get are new demonstrations of how low we can sink is desperately important!
4
Disagree. Want MORE stories of courage and positivity like this and LESS of the disaster in the White House.
13
What? You mean those primitive Thai rescuers didn't want to wait for the arrival of the Elon Musk submarine? You know, the one his team of rocket scientists crafted from an old Falcon booster that wouldn't get there until at least Saturday? Kind of like the Tesla Model 3? Never mind that is it too big to fit through the underwater crevices that were barely wide enough to accommodate an adult human body. I wonder if Musk's team of engineer volunteers ever made it to Thailand to help out.
14
He is a visionary who was thinking of ways to help in an impossible situation. What did you do to help?
3
This is wonderful news. Yet we shouldn't forget that, as of this writing, there are still four rescuers who need to get out and that volunteer Saman Gunan never made it out.
17
This is uplifting news to every global citizen. Prayers continue for the military personnel for their successful return.
11
What were they doing in that cave in the first place?
1
Exploring, perhaps. It’s what humans do. It’s how we spread out of Africa to all parts of the Earth, for better or worse.
4
I know. As happy as I am about their rescue, I keep thinking how reckless and careless was their coach who put them in this position. He ignored the warnings posted outside the cave. I also presume they live in the area since they all had their bicycles so they all would be aware of the monsoon and subsequent flooding of the cave.
According to one of the articles, entering the caves is common for the kids, and one classmates said that they knew the interior map well. Apparently, they were celebrating a player's birthday. The problem seems to be the unexpected rain, which flooded the path before they got out.
As for the coach, I'm not sure how culpable he is but according to CBS news, he sacrificed his own health by giving the boys all his own food and water. As a result, he was one of the sickest victims. Regardless, many of the parents have openly said that they don't blame the coach.
4
The usual Hebrew prayer for thanking G-d for deliverance from grave danger is the Birkat HaGomel or Blessing of Thanksgiving.
Of course, it always helps to have had gutsy, selfless and knowledgeable people at your side.
https://www.myjewishlearning.com/article/birkat-hagomel-a-jewish-prayer-...
https://www.chabad.org/library/article_cdo/aid/115308/jewish/The-Laws-of...
11
Phenomenal news. What an extraordinary close to a saga that for the longest time did not bode well for a happy ending.
The attitudes of the Thais inside and outside of the cave is astonishing. The letters exchanged from the boys and their parents are as moving as the rescue mission itself. Children telling their parents not to worry and that they will be brave - what a portrait of humanity.
I will not be one of those people who spends 2 weeks as a tourist in a foreign country and then acts like an expert on the culture, but the few weeks I did spend in Chiang Rai was enough to recognize that these people are truly special in their kindness, their generosity, their humility, and their good spirits.
I think of this especially because I have seen so many comments on here criticizing the coach and his visiting the cave with the kids close to the monsoon season. Not only is this factually ridiculous - the cave was still open when they entered, before the July 1st closing date - but this guy rescued a dozen boys and kept them alive and safe for weeks in a pitch black cave without food. I am happy to read in this article that the Thais do not share the shaming and judgmental attitudes of many commentators on here, and I imagine a hero's welcome is in store for this remarkable man and the many people who helped rescue them.
211
Agreed with you completely. The coach is a hero for keeping those young boys together and intact under extreme peril. Imagine the panic of being perched on a pitch black ledge for ten days with almost no supplies and no knowledge of time or whether help was in the way. They stayed put, cohesive and were all smiles and politeness and gratitude to the brush diver in the video. Did you hear them thanking him graciously in the video? No panic or crying. Amazing people and the coach is to be particularly congratulated and admired.
72
One of the articles pointed out that it is common for boys to enter the cave, and they apparently did so to celebrate a birthday. I'm not sure how culpable the coach is but according to CBS news, he sacrificed his own health by giving the boys all his own food and water. As a result, he was one of the sickest victims. Regardless, many of the parents have openly said that they don't blame the coach.
6
Agree 1000%.
4
Best news in a long time! The exhalation of relief of all those boys and their coach back above ground, soon to be reunited with their families. A big pat on the back to the coach who seemed to keep those kids together and maintaining some coolheaded was in a situation that could have gone wrong so quickly! It took a lot of planning and courage from the Thai divers who lost of their own, the members who stayed with the lost team, to the high response from the Thai government and of course everyone around the globe who participated in the rescue and the unification of the entire world! Sighs of relief and happiness that this experience has a happy ending!
19
Warmest congratulations to the entire Thai nation! This was brilliantly done.
68
Solidarity in action. Excellent show of what the human spirit can accomplish as the need arises...and as we feel part of the whole. Let's trust that our cynicism in these awful Trumpian times is diminished by the courage of the 'Good Samaritans' showing the way to human redemption.
45
Why this constant Biblical insult to most residents of Samaria?
This is a fabulous, positive story. It makes me smile. Then I begin to think what would happen in the States- lawyers, lawsuits, recriminations, Insta-Celebrity People Magazine interviews and then I frown.
11
You left out publicity-seeking politicians.
So happy! I needed to hear some good news today.
24
Kudos, Royal Thai Navy and its Seals. Condolences to the family of the volunteer who died in the rescue operation. To Thai parents, maybe swimming lessons aren't such a bad idea after all. I recommend the Thai Seals to help rescue the US Democratic Party from its own self made and flooding swamp. Inept leadership seems to be a fitting description.
10
Yes, a Fellowship for the ages.
12
Good to see another country successfully REUNITING children with their parents.
164
Excellent!
7
Thank you, God.
13
Maybe you can pray for Saman Gunan when thanking God for the other lives.
7
There were a lot of humans involved in the rescue. Thank them too.
3
Hooray! Kudos to the responders and the perseverance of the boys and the coach.
15
Amazing and perfect effort. The Thai government/army made the right choices to deal with this high octane problem. They allowed the right people (heroes, all) to be intimately involved. And it worked!
11
Just fantastic! And an amazing demonstration of international cooperation, concern, expertise, and care. Humanity at its best.
44
What a wonderful expression of humanity, that we have to take care of each other. How brave they all were, both the rescuers and the boys and their coach! What an example for all!
31
Rejoice! Rejoice!
I love the world. You know why? Even in the midst of strife, turmoil, poverty, hopelessness, there is a story of generosity, love for fellow man, bravery, and gratitude.
And today, July 10, 2018, this is a world story we can all feel - from the tips of our heads to the tips of our toes.
Humanity prevails! Congratulations Thailand and thanks to all those from around the world to give these 13 a life of light once again!
104
For the first time in a long time, i cried in happiness, in complete relief, breathing for real again. I truly did not think they would come out alive.
To me, this is the equivalent of going to the moon and coming back. What the Thai government did in organizing, in creating the infrastructure to save these boys, what the divers did, the bravery of the boys to face that water is a miracle.
This brought up in many of us a feeling of such overwhelming panic and claustrophobia, especially after the experienced diver lost his life that, such paralyzing fear.....I couldn't even talk about it with friends, it caused such distress. At a backyard party, the conversation turned to it and I leapt up and ran away.....I was nauseated to even think about it, I was so fearful of what was coming for those boys.
Blessed relief for all who were trapped for so long. Blessings to and sympathy for the family of the lost diver, he was a hero.
I'm still crying in happiness.
92
I have 4 grandkids who are 11 thru 17 so the plight of the Thai Team and Coach really hit home. So happy they are safe now and soon to be reunited with their families. The Coach of the Team is an inspiration and amazing person who kept the boys safe and their spirits high. God Bless the Coach, Team and all of the Rescuers from around the world for this amazing rescue. God Bless the Navy Seal diver, Saman Gunan, who gave his life. I was praying that everyone involved in this dangerous rescue would be safe so it is heart breaking that Saman lost his life. My sincere sympathy goes out to Saman's family and friends. He will always be remembered as a brave hero who gave the ultimate sacrifice to save 13 lives.
So happy this ended well...In addition to all boys being safe, reading about the bravery and selflessness of the rescuers was such a relief from the other side of the NYT page filled with the greed and selfishness in and around the Oval Office.
27
It's been extraordinary to realize how much we needed to be reminded of true courage, cooperation, perseverance and humanity with this rescue. We are daily inundated with the contrived propoganda that is the Trump side show. How paler and banal he becomes when set beside these acts of humanity. I hope the media remembers this as they gourge on the supreme court and NATO meetings.
69
Wonderful news. Thanks to the people of several nations who worked together to save them.
20
Best news ever! I'm in awe of the amazing and brave international community that worked together to rescue these boys. Thank you to everyone involved.
27
Joy and thanksgiving, and an immense admiration for bravery, skill, dedication, organization, and grace under pressure. Bravo to the boys and their coach, to the Thai and other divers, to the two British divers who found the team, and to Thailand. A fine, great good deed has been done and we are all the better for it. Very sweet news!
31
Some movie studio bought the rights to this story on day one. Let's hope the Thai families involved--the children, coach, divers, and military and medical personnel--see some of the profits that will be made off this harrowing, hopeful, and ultimately triumphant human story.
8
I'm joining everyone who has written here in rejoicing over the rescue of the boys and their coach--and we still pray that the team that was with the group in the cave is safely out by now. Can we please extend these thoughts, prayers, and determination to rescue and reunite the separated to our own situation in this country? Surely, with similar dedication, we can reunite the detainees and their children and do everything possibly to help the ones who have been reunited at last.
34
At last the magnificent boys and their wonderful coach have all made it to safety. And this news tops any other news we daily receive and ingest from the political fields all over the world. Indeed, this is even a better than that of the FIFA world cup stories. We now wish the safe return of the attending doctors and the rest of helpers all to safety. All those participated in this harrowing ordeal deserve our unconditional support and applause.
25
Hooray! Congratulations to the Royal Tai armed forces and their leadership. I'm so sorry for the loss of their teammate. My heart goes out to his family.
23
I failed to congratulate the boys themselves, fantastic effort on their part. I wonder how many of us could have done as well. Thumbs up to you gentlemen as well!
2
The thai's conducted a thoughtful and well-planned rescue mission without fuss or needing media at every moment. Their appreciation for the boys' privacy, and health and the success of the operation without hinderance from others was a priority. This to me spoke to something special: a culture that sets the intent on the end result, not the notoriety achieved. Well done. And yes, tears of joy that all the Wild Boars and their Coach, out. May they be well enough to watch the World Cup Final!
42
Such good news! Glad they are alive.
18
Joyous news!!! I need good news!!!
18
Agreed: we all need some good news. This is fantastic
8
Yaayyyyyyy! Yaaayyyyyyy! Best news in months!
19
Wow!
10
Thank God, thank God!
17
Also: thank humans.
5
We are thankful that our fellow human beings have been delivered, through whosoever's agency. And again we need to dispel the fake news based on a coincidence of nomenclature that the US Navy Seals had any involvement with this operation, as far too many people expressed in these ongoing comments.
10
Please, if I hear this called “a miracle” in the media one more time, I might hurl.
It was hard work, real concern for others, and the astounding bravery and selflessness of those actually willing to die to save the helpless. All who dove risked death, and Thai diver Saman Kunan drown trying his best.
Add to that: sheer competence, cool headedness, thoughtful planning, grit, and mindful execution.
Celebrate this as an example of the best of human spirit and mind -what we can and should be more often.
But giving credit to “the divine” diminishes the achievement of the human beings who, despite great odds and personal risk, made this grand achievement happen.
331
Absolutely Charles - well said.
7
One of the SEALS himself wondered about the miraculous nature of this result. Sometimes other elements besides human effort must also come into play in order to have this kind of outcome...luck? divine intervention? Whatever it was, you have to admit that sometimes even when we humans plan and work and come together, good outcomes are not always a given - sometimes things go horribly wrong. So I don't think it's necessary to disparage peoples' awareness of the outside/random/divine factors that worked as part of this rescue.
15
But to remove the Divine from the equation is precisely to minimize the magnitude of what man has accomplished. It is nothing short of a miracle that all 12 boys and the coach survived such perilous conditions, found safety, stayed alive, were found in the abyss of that cave, and have managed to favorably escape unfavorable conditions that even life-long diving experts stuggled with. I see nothing but a series of miracles- big and small- that aligned to allow man to be pushed to his limit and accomplish- with tenacity, courage, innovation, hardwork, and leadership- far beyond what was imaginable. So yes, the safe rescue has been a profound showcase of the best man has to offer, as well as a glimpse of a fraction of what the Divine is made of. Open your mind (and heart), no need to separte science from the skies, man from the Divine... we are interconnected, and what the world has witnessed in that cave in Thailand is nothing short of a miracle.
2
So proud and relieved for the young men and their families. I would wake up in the middle of the night and search for light, unable to go back to sleep, thinking about those still trapped. Awesome courage, sacrifice and effort to get it done!
16
Me too, Steve. I found myself checking for updates at 4 am on many a morning, unable to sleep. Bless all involved in this wonderful outcome!
8
Does Saman Gunan, the 38 year old Thai Navy SEAL diver who died participating in this rescue, have a family? If he does, we need to take care of them. Has anyone done a follow-up regarding his family’s prospects for well being. He died as a hero, and his family deserves monetary support, his children education and well being. Has the Thai government put any plan into action? Are there any funding sites for him, as well as other rescuers?
NYTimes please follow up regarding his remembrance and any support being planned for his family.
362
Already done. I read in another article that the King of Thailand has ordered a full state funeral and that his family be taken care of financialy.
18
It was reported that in addition to taking care of his funeral, the King ordered that his family be cared for.
2
Of course we rejoice for the rescue of these boys and their coach. But lets remember that thousands of innocent children are suffering (and dying) all over the globe for preventable reasons. Even in the wealthiest nation on earth. If you're a believer, how about a prayer for them.
13
And if you're not a believer, send money.
6
In addition to prayers financial donations and voting for leaders who care about humanitarian problems at home AND abroad is required. Don’t ask the deity to help if you won’t.
5
For the first time in a long time the entire world was on the same side. Why can’t we do that more often?
95
I think all young soccer players around the world understand strength and endurance in a new way after we have all waited and hoped for a good outcome for these young Thai players and their Assistant Coach--an immigrant from Myanmar. Perhaps it will shed more light on the persecution of the Rohingya in Myanmar now. In any case, the children and their rescuers are an antidote to the slimy political grifters and a president who uses children as bargaining chips and threatens the world because it wants breast feeding to be the norm. There are still amazing, selfless people in the world. We can't lose hope.
6
Fantastic news, hopefully we can let these children go home to private lives rather than drag them to endless publicity and marketing. They have suffered enough without having to become celebrities.
8
Absolutely. I’ll second that! What a heroic effort. Praying the four Thai military personnel return safely, that the rescuees recover well and handle any trauma associated with their ordeal, and my prayers and thoughts are with Mr Saman Gunan, who gave his life to help save these kids, and to his grieving family. Rest in Peace, Mr Gunan, you are an eternal hero.
16
Wonderful news! Hope all involved make a full recovery.
Thanks to all the volunteers and rescuers and thanks to former Thai Navy SEAL diver Saman Gunan. May he rest in peace.
14
Best story in the past 10 years. So many lessons in life to be learned from this event.
16
It was such an incredibly precarious situation for these young children and the bravery and experience of the rescuers was doubtless tested to the fullest. But the evident imperative of the rescuers (and as a NASA project manager famously said during the Apollo 13 crisis) "failure is not an option."
12
This is such wonderful news--my parish priest asked us to pray for them, which I've doing. It was a real race against time and hopefully won't cause long-term trauma regarding water.
Kudos to the expert divers from Britain and other nations.
10
This is amazing. The Thai people and the rescuers, especially the divers, should be very proud. The urgency, focus, and skill with which they acted is particularly comendable. This is an accomplishment that would have challenged any nation in the world to carry out so successfully.
There are many heroes, and while the coach made a reckless and costly decision, he did not act criminally. To have kept all the young men alive and under control during those hopeless days before they were found, let alone rescued, may have been a notable accomplishment. I look forward to hearing the whole story.
15
Some joy amidst the sorrows of our world! As always, Sun Face Buddha/Moon Face Buddha shows us the preciousness and impermanence of our lives here. Deepest condolences to the loved ones of rescue diver, Saman Kunan, who died in his courageous efforts. Gratitude to all those heroes who took part. Happiness to the Wild Boars loved ones. And to those kids and coach who fought against all odds to survive, welcome home!
22
Terrific news, God Speed for a quick recovery, and heartfelt condolences to the rescuer who died.
12
With the national and international news too often filled with the tragic plight of children this is a joyous moment for the world to applaud. Congratulations to all the courageous people who risked their lives... and to the memory of the Thai Seal who gave his so others could live.
18
Finally there’s some uplifting world news! It would be wonderful if the rescue planners would devote some time to reunifying parents and children who are separated by just one Alex-Azar-keystroke. I have no doubt that the Thai problem-solvers can handle this!
5
To all those who participated in the rescue efforts, Job Well Done. While there was a loss of life, one of the heroic divers, this certainly could have been much worse, if not for your valiant efforts. Thank You!!
6
Great International effort with a fantastic result. This is such welcome news!
14
What great news! With the final trip of the four rescuers, a great effort in cooperation and compassion will be complete. This rescue showed what great determination, expertise and bravery can do when we put to our minds the duty to save our fellow man.
I hope the boys recover quickly and are able to overcome any trauma from their ordeal.
31
Even as the World Cup goes into its final week, the most popular soccer team in the world, the Wild Boars, had its rescue completed today. Great news.
108
What a happy ending, albeit at the cost of the life of brave Thai Navy SEAL driver Saman Gunan. This should be a story of human resilience, bravery and self-sacrifice for generations to come.
It also shows what is possible when human beings come together towards a common cause irrespective of individual differences. It should a lesson for our political leaders about what we can be achieved by uniting people, not dividing them.
The story gives you a shining ray of hope against the prevailing climate of gloom all around us.
132
I vote the divers share the Nobel Peace Prize. Their skills and determination have transfixed the world in goodwill.
467
They are heroes, indeed. But I think some credits should also go to the draining team. The water level decreased and stayed down partly because of the draining team working around the clock. This story is particularly uplifting because heroes were everywhere. The lady who just showed up and cooked halal food for muslim rescuers. The local family who heard about the rescuers' hygiene and offered to do their laundry at night for free. The farmers. The local government. The coach who kept the kids alive. The Gunan family. (His wife posted on social media congratulating the team. How selfless is that) The team who searched for alternative routes also put their lives in danger descending themselves down the mountain to find possible exits. They worked hard although they were plan B. Even most media on ground behaved very nicely.
15
Excellent news. A great job and round of applause for all who helped
14
Wonderful news! Condolences to the family of the hero rescuer who lost his life while saving the lives of others. The broadcasts of the rescue efforts have made for riveting tunnelvision. Too bad we now have to turn our attention back to the more intractable problems we face above ground.
30
Watching this exciting rescue story unfold must have been what it was like in 1925 when the children of Nome, Alaska were suffering from a diphtheria outbreak and the only serum available to save them couldn’t reach them by train or boat or plane. A relay of sled dog teams was organized and began the long trek as the world listened on their radios for updates. Would they make it before the children died? Balto was the lead dog of what was supposed to be the next to last team. When Balto’s team arrived at the rendezvous point they found the intended last team asleep and unprepared. So Balto led his team through darkness and a blizzard on a miraculous second and final leg and arrived in time to save the children. Balto became an overnight international hero. A statue of Balto was created in Central Park. Balto was present at its unveiling. It’s the most visited statue in the park. An animated Balto movie was made in 1995 which my grandkids loved.
So bravo to the heroic divers who saved the Thai soccer kids. Balto would be proud of you.
145
Man to heck with dogs. This is about humans.
3
Wow! I've heard of Balto and even walked by the statue but I didn't know his story. Thank you for sharing! It brought tears to my eyes. (I'm going to copy it and forward to my friends) We all need to hear positive stories! Thanks, again!
Hip Hip Hooray!
14
Great headline.
8
Wonderful! This is the news I have been waiting for. I turned off the news at 9pm last night.
10
Huzzah! This year's World Cup winners! Thanks everone!!
16
This is what humanity can do when we work together, use our intelligence and skills, rely on and trust one another and practice patience.
My heart is so full today.
77
OUTSTANDING!
Thanks to the rescuers and all involved. GREAT WORK!
And for those of us who could only hope and watch, we can breathe again!
19
I don't know why this tragedy touched me so much, maybe because it plays with so many of our biggest fears: Being trapped in the dark, losing hope, having to dive for hours, without visibility, in a confined space. And on top of all of this, it's kids having to go through this.
I can't say how happy and grateful I am that so many people risked their lives and actually managed to get everyone out. If this is not a man-made miracle, what is?
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To all who write daily in Gratitude journals focused on recognizing and appreciating even the smallest miracles, this colossal miracle should top all Gratitude lists for the month - maybe the year!
16
What a great news. Congratulations to the world team working together to rescue the boys.
Lessons for us, great things can be accomplished working together, hard to be great working alone!
35
Wildly fabulous news for the Wild Boars, for Thailand, for Navy Seals of all countries, for expert divers, and for the entire world.
The best news we´ve had for what seems like ages, and ages!
Prayers work.
10
But Prayers without Divers - not so much.
13
Divers did this, not prayers.
11
Lord knows we have needed some good news. How uplifting to read among the stories filling front pages these days.
23
Great news. What a triumph.
And could we never again hear about Elon Musk again, who did absolutely nothing to help these boys and their coach, but somehow managed to work his way into every other story?
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That was not Elon Musk’s fault. When called out to help in a public forum, he modestly said he assumed the Thai government had things under control. Then he offered to send engineers and ideas. Who wouldn’t want to offer help if they could? I assume he was called on because he has that tunnel digger. Is it his fault that the media is obsessed with him?
30
Thank you!!
o buzz off. everyone does what they can. at least Musk, with 3 companies, one of them mining related, and a bazillion dollars to his name, tried to do what he could do. it's not his fault what the news reports. you sat here and typed dis. thanks for your help.
1
Wow, wow, wow! Praying for a safe return to the surface for each helper. Almost done now,almost done.
34
Thailand mobilizes the power of the state and the resources of the international community to find last children and reunite them with their families.
The United States mobilizes the power of the state and shuns the international community to separate children from their families and lose them.
Now every proud to be an American today. But very proud to be a member of the human race in solidarity with women and men of good will from every country in the world.
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It's a poor reflection on you that you had to take this joyous news, and use it as an opportunity to make a political comment, detracting from this joyous news.
4
Forget the cost involved. A man died as a result of a decision by the "coach" to wander into that cave. That man no doubt had a family. How has that "story line" been covered?
The "coach" should pay the appropriate price for a negligent decision. My suggestion is 5-7 years in jail.
3
This will haunt him forever. That's punishment enough.
18
It is now reported that the coach actually went looking for the boys after he was told by one of the parents that the boys were missing:
https://www.perthnow.com.au/news/world/thai-cave-rescue-how-the-cave-nig...
6
Respectfully, I dusagree strongly. That coach lives in a world where his entire family and Village perished from a disease. Do you think people went to jail for allowing the conditions under which that occurred to exist? He lives in a world, where life and limb are not protected to the degree you and I are accustomed to. Therefore, you cannot be held to the standards you and I are accustomed to. The team and he went into those caves with your open, to the public, not closed as they would have been in the United States or wherever you live, presumably. They met with some very bad luck when water prevented their escape. He was doing nothing wrong, illegal or unusual, in that world. Amazingly, the coach made all the right calls, guiding the children to a ledge deep inside the cave where they sat perched for 10 days in complete darkness with almost no supplies and not one of them panicked and perished in an attempt to escape. I assume that was because the coach was someone the boys admired, had complete faith in, obeyed, and therefore did not panic. The facts, in my opinion, are testimony to the coach's extraordinary bravery and character.
12
Before the world regresses to the mean (literally) with whataboutery and other assorted nonsense, let us take a moment to appreciate the spirit of the boys, their coach and the daring and commitment of the rescuers. What a great operation! Let us also pay tribute to the braveheart diver who lost his life in the operation, Petty Officer Saman Gunan. Kudos to everybody involved.
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I think we should also recognize the local Thai government and community leaders who had the patience and tenacity to continue to search for the boys, and then once the boys were located, not make a circus out of the rescue. No preening, self congratulatory blowhards performing for the media, no parading the traumatized families about, just quiet, dignified, serious and professional attention to the daunting task of saving lives. We talk a lot about the qualities required of leaders. This is what they look like in operation.
There's really only one thing to say:
A miracle born of courage on all hands.
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"Hey, do you have the ball?" "No, I thought you had it." The sequel: OH BOY
Amazing story. Hope they stick to playing soccer.
2
I preferred the first version of this headline, when it contained the exclamation mark.
8
On a day when I expected virtually nothing good to be in the news, this is absolutely outstanding to read!
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I'm happy it ends so well. It could very well have ended differently.
But I also hope Thailand will now severely restrict access to these caves. This operation has cost a lot of money and efforts, and let's not forget that one person died trying to save them.
4
Tremendously good news. I am so happy for the team and their families. The efforts of the divers were incredible. Congratulations to the Thai people on a joyous day.
38
I feel such jubilation and relief that the twelve boys and their coach are safe at last and are recuperating in the hospital, however, this mission is not completely finished until the “four members of the Thai military - a doctor and three Navy SEAL members” safely make “their way out of the cave”. I am still holding my breath for their safe return.
I think cartoonist Stephane Peray summed up this situation accurately when he stated, “This story is different than everyday ugly politics,” It is making us feel good about ourselves that mankind is not completely lost after all.” So many positive and encouraging lessons can be learned from this ordeal and hopefully they will not be lost once the cameras are turned off and news reporters depart for other developing stories.
The deepest gratitude and thank you to all who helped rescue these individuals. And the sincerest condolences to the family and loved ones of deceased diver, Saman Gunan, who gallantly gave his life in his attempts to save these boys and their coach.
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Absolutely the best news of the day, the week, the year! Reaffirms my faith that together, we can literally work miracles!
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Former Thai Navy SEAL diver Saman Gunan, 38, died while trying to save the boys.
Thank you to all the brave and heroic rescue workers, but especially to Saman Gunan.
545
_mis placed reply_ :( As for @Alan82, the coach (another kid, really) kept them alive for at least 10 days in the dark. Gave them a couple protein bars. I read that you did too, but it could have been fake news. And, the comment above was originally intended as part of the thread below @Reader, Los Angeles above; "Prayers work."
2
I will celebrate the un-paralleled wonder of life, daily, on behalf of him, Soc.
2
As an aside, the order of beleaguered comments is out of order. NB: Times.
I am delighted that everyone is out and safe. Sadly one of the Thai divers did not make it out. Now that they are all out safely I would like to know why they were in the cave to begin with. When some of their classmates were interviewed they clearly said they were prohibited from going inside these caves. I think the soccer coach should have to answer this question.
5
I am guessing--JUST GUESSING--that it was a short excursion in, rain came, water blocked passage out, and they continued farther in to reach dry ground. A short jaunt became 6 miles.
18
I read in one of the NYT articles that this was a ritual followed by ??? I even commented that this ritual should be abolished.
I hope you are correct. If not it was really bad judgement.
Hooray!
42
"It took dozens of divers, hundreds of volunteers and 18 days to do it: The rescue operation at Tham Luang Cave has succeeded in freeing all 12 of the young soccer players and their coach, in a drama that captured the world’s attention." I feel that there should be some specific mention of the brave diver who lost his life trying to rescue the boys.
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There is so much recognition to be acknowledged it is hard to know where to begin.
The first is the coach that found dry shelter for the boys and kept them calm, focused and safe for ten consecutive days.
The international response to this humanitarian effort that captivated the entire planet.
The families that united together who choose hope instead of despair.
The divers unwavering commitment in locating the team and rescuing them as well with one making the ultimate sacrifice.
And lastly the boys themselves, well for just being boys.
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And don't forget the 24/7 news coverage by the media and the massive donations flowing in to keep these kids alive for the next several months while they get taught how to scuba dive.
6
Agre with all except the coach. Given that he irresponsibly took the boys into the cave in the first place, what he did was no less than he was duty-bound to do.
Swimming is a life skill.
"It said an average of four children in Thailand died every day from drowning, a rate five to 15 times higher than those for developed countries."
Let's hope this dramatic story will enable the Thai government to mount a successful campaign to teach every child to swim. To the parents: you can't keep kids away from water, so at least let them learn to swim to be safer in the water.
If they do that then maybe Saman Gunan's death will not have been in vain
75
Agree that swimming is a valuable life skill, but in this case it seems it wouldn't have made a difference.
From reports of conditions inside the cave, it seems clear attempting to swim out of the situation without diving gear and the training to use it would have been deadly.
The boys and their coach were wise to stay put as they did.
David, no one suggested or talked about the boys swimming out.
But it was repeatedly mentioned in the articles that one of the reasons the rescue would be more difficult was that the boys did not know how to swim.
Not every moment has to be turned into a teachable one.
Can we please just savor this good news without the preaching?
Congratulations to all involved in this heroic effort. The coach, in particular, is a true hero. Imagine the terror of being perched on a ledge for 10 days with almost no supplies, in total darkness, and no knowledge of rescue efforts underway. It is amazing that not one of them panicked and perished in an attempt to get to safety. He made a difficult call staying on the ledge waiting patiently. it is truly amazing he was able to keep them together. What faith the boys must have in him. And oh my the selflessness and bravery and skill of the rescuers!!!! The best of humanity can be seen in this story, now with a happy ending. YESSS
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Fantastic comment Mark! And may the selfless acts of courage and bravery by deceased diver Saman Gunan always be remembered and included whenever this heroic and miraculous story is told over and over and over again. Half of my heart breaks for his family and loved ones and the other half is filled with relief and happiness for the kids, their coach, their families and the plethora of other divers and volunteers who helped bring them to safety.
5
Tempered by the fact he seemingly lead them in so deep in the first place.
I think here he would be sued by the parents for negligence.
1
Marie at least one story I read said that Ek Chantawong went into the caves after the boys, to look for them. The facts are not yet out.
However, even if he accompanied the boys, they entered a cave open to the public. It was apparently not unusual or prohibited.
When Ek was 10, a disease swept through his village killing his parents and brother. Where I live, if that happened, authorities would presumably be held responsible for allowing that to happen and Ek would have sued countless entities and people for negligence. He lives in a world where life and limb do not always have the protections you and I are accustomed to. Let's keep that fact in mind before judging anyone.
Bravo. Great rescue operation. Very inspiring. Thank you to the hundreds or thousands who participated in finding a successful solution. Cave divers are our newest superheroes, & members of first responders. Incredible. Continued praise & luck to all involved. The world loves you.
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The NYT just dispelled an ancient assumption - that newspapers and news sources only report bad and negative news. I honestly do not recall the last time I smiled for an entire day after reading a NYT headline - front and center.
Perhaps there is some semblance of hope after all for the residents of Planet Earth. This story has renewed my faith and belief in humans when things are truly at their worst and darkest. Thank you to everyone who helped with this rescue mission. Each and every one of you are heroes.
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They have so little of everything but heart yet they truly stand as this globe's heroes while the billionaire U.S. president, who commands unimaginable material wealth, is the world's heel.
Marge, with as low a bar set for optimism as that, the fact that the Times would actually report a newsworthy story and stick to the facts, keep checking pay phone coin slots.
What a wonderful and timely observation. Thank you so much for pointing this out to everyone.
1
While celebrating the glorious international rescue of the Thai boys and their coach from caves to the arms of their families, I can only mourn our apparent incapacity to reunite children we stole from parents who brought them to our borders seeking asylum. This will be a national shame for our country for all time.
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Consider: These boys went into the cave out of their own youthful exuberance and adventurousness - developmentally normal behavior. Upon learning they were in danger, adults rallied heroically to save them and reunite them with their distraught families. Efforts to save them went on round the clock with staggering levels of expertise and commitment involved. One person died, trying to help 12 boys.
In the U.S., adults lacking in conscience or normal human empathy and decency coldly, thoughtlessly, appallingly wrenched children - some much younger than the Thai boys - literally from their parents' arms WITHOUT EVEN A PLAN or thought to how they might be reunited. No one seems to have even thought to, like, make a list of who went where, and when the government is asked what they plan to do about this terrible tragedy they caused, they shrug. They don't know, they're working on it, there's no timeline, no plan, and complete blackout of info on the children's well-being, because they literally DON'T KNOW WHERE THEY ARE.
It is this stark contrast that has kept many people riveted, I think.
16
And we have a parallel which should make people think: the latest installment in the Times explains that the coach, Mr Ekkapol and the young man who ("proficient in English, Thai, Burmese, Mandarin and Wa") translated for the divers, Adul, are both stateless: e.g, undocumented aliens in Thailand. Adul is a child would be in detention in the US.
2
I cannot help but mourn for American children who are homeless and hungry on a daily basis because the lower and lower middle classes in the U.S. have been in despair and struggling since the 1970s - the result of LBJ and Congress tossing out long-standing effective immigration laws and flinging open our borders to millions of 2nd and 3rd worlders every year for the last 50.