More emotional reunions as the last of Chile's 33 trapped miners finally emerged above ground to their first fresh air in weeks. The last leave the mine where a cave-in trapped them more than half a kilometer underground for over two months was Luis Urzua.
"We had the strength. We had the spirit. We had the courage to fight, to fight for our lives, to fight for our families. That's what was the most magnificent."
For rescue workers who brave the claustrophobic conditions underground to bring the miners to safety, the end of the evacuation was a proud moment. They have to endure the same slow journey back to the surface as the miners in the specially built capsule which was barely wide enough for a man’s shoulders.
The complex and ambitious rescue mission was watched by millions around the globe on live TV. The happy endings to the men's ordeal sent a wave of euphoria across Chile. At nowhere was the party atmosphere and relief more evident than Copiapo, the city close to the mine.
"We have to thank God for everything that he's done. It's him up there. They are all alive. Thanks to God."Chile's President Sebastián Pinera who's seen his popularity surged as his government praised for handling of the crisis says the rescue has changed the nation.
"The miners are not the same miners who got trapped on August 5th. They have come out strengthen and they have given us a lesson. But Chile is not the same either. I think Chile today is more united and stronger than ever. And I think Chile today is more valued and respected in the entire world."
For the 33 miners who set a new world record for survival while trapped underground, their days in the pit appear over. Alongside new-found status as national heroes that are being showered with gifts, while job offers, book and movie contracts almost certainly come in their way.
Paul Chatman, Reuters.
