Apr 3, 2003 2 min read

The small victories must be celebrated. And one came Tuesday when Army Pfc. Jessica Lynch, captured by Iraqi forces, was rescued 10 days letter. In the context of the casualties of war, and the devastation it brings, the story of Lynch’s rescue provides a heartwarming lift and serves as a testament to what is so right about our fighting troops. Lynch, from the small town of Palestine, W.Va., joined the Army for the opportunities it provides. The 19-year-old planned to use the service as a ticket to higher education with the goal of returning to her hometown to teach school. It’s an ordinary story, similar to the many we have heard in recent weeks about soldiers from our own area and across the country. Lynch’s story turned extraordinary when she and 15 other soldiers were ambushed and taken captive. When Iraqi TV aired the bodies of a few dead soldiers, the worst was feared.

But these men and women carry a sense of duty that surpasses the ordinary. And to that end, the military does not move forward and forget its captured soldiers. Perseverance led to discovering the hospital (also used as a stockpile for weapons) where Lynch was held captive. Her survival and rescue are inspiring. It is a victory worth celebration.