Teh Daring Rescue of María Corina Machado: A Veteran-Led Extraction from venezuela
María Corina Machado‘s journey to accept the 2024 Freedom Award in Oslo was far more perilous than most laureates experience. The Venezuelan opposition leader, having demonstrably defeated President Nicolás Maduro in last year’s widely disputed election, has been forced to operate in hiding for over a year. Her safe passage out of Venezuela required a meticulously planned and executed operation, reminiscent of a high-stakes thriller.
At the heart of this extraordinary mission was Bryan Stern, a U.S. Special Forces veteran and founder of Gray Bull Rescue foundation. Stern and his team specialize in high-risk extractions, having successfully rescued individuals from hazardous situations around the globe. However, as Stern explains, Machado’s case presented unique challenges.
“She’s the second most popular person in the Western Hemisphere after Maduro,” Stern stated. This high profile, coupled with the political sensitivity of the situation, significantly complicated the extraction process.
Operation Golden Dynamite: A Race Against Time
Stern’s team had just one week to devise a plan, codenamed “Operation Golden Dynamite” – a clever tribute to Alfred Nobel, the founder of the Peace Prize and inventor of dynamite. A land route was immediately dismissed due to the high concentration of checkpoints and the risk of recognition. The team quickly steadfast a maritime extraction was the only viable option.
However, the waters off venezuela’s coast are fraught with danger. The U.S. military has been actively engaged in disrupting alleged narco-trafficking operations, destroying numerous vessels and resulting in significant casualties. Stern confirmed coordination with U.S. officials to ensure the rescue operation wouldn’t be misidentified.
Careful consideration was given to the extraction vessel itself. “I didn’t want a big giant boat with big engines that coudl go fast and cut through waves,” Stern explained. “That’s what the narcos use – and the U.S. military likes to blow them up.” A more discreet approach was crucial.
A Rendezvous in the Dark
the initial plan called for a rendezvous in the Caribbean Sea. But unforeseen circumstances forced a critical adjustment. Machado’s boat failed to reach the designated meeting point.
“We were supposed to meet in the middle, but when that couldn’t happen, we pivoted and went to them,” Stern recounted.
This change of plans led to a tense and precarious encounter. In complete darkness, battling 10-foot waves, both teams approached with extreme caution. The risk of encountering opposed forces – cartel members, government agents, or others – was palpable. Mutual suspicion ran high.
“I could be Maduro’s guys,I could be cartel guys - anything realy,” stern admitted. “Everyone is skittish approaching each other in the dead of night at sea. In 10-foot waves? This is scary stuff.”
The tension finally broke when a voice called out across the water: “It’s me – María!”
Safe Passage to Oslo
Stern’s team quickly brought Machado aboard. The remaining journey to a Caribbean island - widely reported to be Curaçao – was relatively smooth, aided by favorable winds. A private plane awaited to transport her to Oslo for the Freedom Award ceremony.
Stern was especially impressed by Machado’s resilience throughout the ordeal. “We’re all bitching and moaning - it’s cold, it’s wet, we’re hungry, it’s dark,” he said. “She didn’t complain once.”
He also revealed a newfound appreciation for the source of Machado’s “Iron Lady” moniker. ”She’s gnarly,” Stern laughed. “Pretty awesome.”
Why This Extraction matters
This operation highlights the ongoing struggle for democracy in Venezuela and the lengths to which individuals and organizations are willing to go to support it. grey Bull Rescue Foundation’s work, and the bravery of individuals like María Corina Machado, serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of defending freedom and human rights, even in the face of overwhelming adversity.
If you are interested in learning more about Grey Bull Rescue Foundation and their work, you can visit their website: https://greybullrescue.org/
Key Takeaways:
* High-Risk Extraction: The rescue of María Corina Machado was a complex and dangerous
