BOISE -- Family of an Idaho prisoner of war marked the third anniversary of his capture by the Taliban in Afghanistan, saying they hope he's released this year and can return home.
U.S. Army Soldier Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl of Hailey was captured June 30, 2009, and is believed held in Pakistan or Afghanistan.
His family released a statement Friday, thanking organizations for efforts to keep their son's name in the public's eye:
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“June 30th marks the end of three years captivity for our son, U.S. Army Soldier Bowe Bergdahl by the Taliban in Eastern Afghanistan. We remain hopeful for the release of our son and we will continue to work to make that happen.
We would like to thank the organizers and participants in a number of events around our nation who have rallied to bring awareness to our cause of bringing Bowe home. The yellow ribbons we see all around our own community remind us that our son has not been forgotten here at home or around the world.
We’d also like to ask each of you as individuals and as a nation for your continued awareness as Bowe begins his fourth year as a prisoner. We want this to be the year we see our only son safely returned home.”
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The statement came through the U.S. Department of Defense, where officials reiterated their ongoing efforts to secure Bergdahl's release.
The Pentagon says securing the 26-year-old's freedom remains "a constant focus for commanders in Afghanistan."
Recent media reports suggested Bergdahl was disenchanted with the military's mission in central Asia and may have walked off his base before he was taken prisoner.
