In my previous post I told you a little about my time in Antofagasta, Chile.
One of my uncle's friends took me on that unforgettable flight! (Link)
Well, this pilot is not just an exceptional pilot... he's also a very good guy!
In August of 2010, about 430 miles North of Chile's capital Santiago, the San José mine collapsed.
Deep inside were 33 miners, trapped and separated from their families. There was no 2nd exit.
The whole world watched this story unfold.
Can you imagine?! You are 2300 feet below the earth's surface, you have no way out, and you don't even know if the people above ground will be able to rescue you or even know that you are still alive!!
I don't know how I would cope with that.
You're probably wondering why I'm telling you this. Well...
Two excruciating months later, all 33 miners were successfully rescued!
The first note, confirming everyone was alive.
It was my pilot friend who's drilling rig found the minors and drilled the rescue shaft that brought them up, one by one. He did this all voluntarily (paid for by him and his partner).
Sadly he wasn't given that much credit by the news casters and journalists outside of Chile.
But that doesn't change what he did!
Till next time...
Join me as I journey by yacht from Southern Chile to Cuba! - Part 2 "Antofagasta"