LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- For the first time, Louisville dad Drue Corbett is sharing his relief and joy following his son Ryan's return to American soil after being held captive by the Taliban for nearly two and a half years—894 days to be exact.
“Two and-a-half years of wondering,” Drue said, reflecting on the long and painful journey. “A month turned into years, and my son is in prison by the Taliban. That still sounds surreal.”
Ryan Corbett’s release marks the end of a grueling chapter for the family, who had been living in uncertainty and hope since his detainment. Now back in the U.S., Ryan is undergoing medical evaluations at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas, where American detainees are treated upon their return.
Drue expressed his gratitude and surprise at his son’s resilience.
“Ryan met (his family) about 1:30 on Tuesday morning, spent an hour together, and then they whisked him away. He’s getting super government treatment,” Drue said, beaming with pride.
Ryan Corbett hugs his wife, Anna, and their children after landing on U.S. soil following his release from his nearly 900-day wrongful imprisonment by the Taliban. (Courtesy: Drue Corbett)
Doctors said Ryan could be released from the medical center as early as Friday, though his re-entry process might take weeks or months, depending on his recovery. Despite the time apart, Ryan has already left his parents several voicemail messages, lifting their spirits.
“Oh, it was great. He sounded like himself. He was hyped. I mean, who wouldn’t be? ‘I’m out, free—what’s that feel like?’” Drue shared.
Drue also extended his gratitude to Congressman Morgan McGarvey for supporting their family. A bipartisan resolution calling for Ryan’s release was passed last year, and Drue credited both President Joe Biden and President Donald Trump for their efforts to bring Ryan home.
“I think about Anna and those kids being actually able to see him for the first time and putting aside all that’s been missed, looking forward to that reunited future together. That’s what makes this worthwhile,” Drue said.
Ryan Corbett hugs his wife, Anna, after landing on U.S. soil following his release from his nearly 900-day wrongful imprisonment by the Taliban. (Courtesy: Drue Corbett)
After 894 days of sorrow, uncertainty, and an unimaginable emotional burden, Drue said the weight has been lifted.
“You’re carrying a load, and you don’t really know the kind of load that you’re carrying," he said. "Suddenly it’s gone, and you’re like, wow—I really can be happy again.”
The Corbett family remains mindful of other Americans still being held hostage abroad, and said they’ll continue to advocate for their release.
“I couldn’t project this day,” Drue said through tears, his joy finally reflecting the relief his heart has yearned for.
Previous Coverage:
- Ryan Corbett released after nearly 900 days in Taliban captivity
- Wife of American hostage pleads before lawmakers on Capitol Hill for husband's safe return
- Louisville couple hopes to see their son soon after US lawmakers call for his release from Taliban
- US Senate leaders call for Taliban to release man with ties to Louisville after 20 months of being held hostage
- After 20 months of being held hostage by the Taliban, family of man with ties to Louisville says he's 'losing hope'
- House committee passes resolution aiming to bring home Louisville man kidnapped by the Taliban
- 'He is suffering greatly' | Louisville couple speaks out as Taliban holds son hostage for nearly 18 months
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