'Some moments of significant fear': Aussie doctor speaks of Thai cave rescue
Aussie hero diver Dr Richard Harris has spoken about moments of fear and elation during the epic three-day operation to free the 12 boys and their coach from the Thailand cave.
Our new national hero Dr Harris summed up his extraordinary mission for the first time from his home in Adelaide, saying the unprecedented rescue mission at Chiang Rai was a rollercoaster of emotions.
“Some moments of significant fear, I have to say, and then a great result and some really joyous moments to finish,” he said.
After playing a key role in helping the 12 trapped boys and their soccer coach, Dr Harris then had to cope with news his father had died back home.
“[That] was a bit of a bittersweet moment, and that’s why I’ve been grateful for everyone respecting my privacy,” he said.
“So I’m hoping to get back to work and go through the funeral and celebrate dad’s life and get back to normal as absolutely quickly as possible.”
Dr Harris is now favourite for Australian of the Year, while both he and diving mate Craig Challen could be eligible for our highest civilian honour, the Cross of Valour.
Also hoping to get back to normal are the rescued boys and their coach, who have also spoken today and thanked their rescue team.
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Adul Sam, a Myanmar refugee, is the only boy who can speak English. He was first to communicate with British divers.
“I’m Adul. Now I am very fine and thank you so very help me,” he said.
“Thank you so much.”
The soccer team have also shown off drawings, made while recovering in isolation and still cut off from the world.
On Saturday, 4000 locals turned up to help clean around the cave site where it all began.
The site was the epicentre where the international team ran its operation. The locals say helping clean it up is a way to say “thank you” and be involved in the world event that took over their town.
They have plenty of praise for the Aussie effort, with one man in particular.
“We love Dr Harry,” one man told the 7 News camera.
A local woman added: “He is a hero.”