September 30, 2005

Former Hostage Family Thanks Readers and Friends

I've received a couple of nice e-mails the past couple of days from Carrie Hallums Cooper and Susan Hallums. They both express their deepest gratitude for all of your efforts at keeping Roy's name in the forefront of our nation's collective conscience. Thank you one and all for helping spread the word!

After 60 Minutes aired the interview with the former hostage on Monday, you'll be happy to know that President Bush telephoned Roy to wish him his best. We have been quite critical of State Department policy regarding hostages on this website, and are grateful to learn that much more goes on behind the scenes to free our hostages than is publicly aknowledged.

Roy is aware of what you, the readers, did for him during his long ordeal and his family has promised to pass on our best wishes to him.

Last, here is a picture sent to me by Susan Hallums of the family finally reunited. God Bless America! more...

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September 23, 2005

Hostage Forced to Bash Bush

Roy Hallums will be on 60 Minutes this Sunday. Here is some of what he says in the interview, from a CBS Press release (thanks to Tall Glass of Milk):

I didn't like the videos going out," says Hallums, "because I knew my family would probably see them and I hated for my daughters to see me in that situation," he tells Stahl.

His captors also sought his family's telephone numbers to ask for a ransom, says Hallums, putting a pistol barrel in his mouth and threatening to kill him. "I knew if I gave them the number, they would call them and ask for moneyÂ…and I didn't want [my family] to deal with a call like that."

Hallums was kept in a crawlspace below a farmhouse for most of the 10 months, a space he estimates at 9 feet by 11 feet and just over 4 feet high. At times there were several other hostages. "Most at any time is about nine people....You've got nine people and their breath and humidity, just living with nine people you don't know," recalls Hallums. He was blindfolded and bound the entire time.

And this from the NY Post, from the same interview (thanks to lawhawk):
A civilian contractor who was kept in a stifling crawl space by his Iraqi abductors for more than 10 months was beaten before being forced to make videos slamming President Bush for being indifferent to hostages, he says in his first interview since his rescue.
You will recall that Susan Hallums had said that the Bush-bashing didn't seem like Roy at all. His family always believed Roy had been forced to make those statements.

For past coverage, visit the Roy Hallums Archive.

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September 19, 2005

Roy Hallums Rescue Video

Shaun at Bareknucckle Politics has it. Notice the terrible conditions 'Roy was kept in, how happy he seems, and listen at the end as he describes his hostage takers beating him so that he would cry during the earlier hostage video.

We're glad you are back Roy.

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September 16, 2005

Roy Hallums Home, Rescue Video Released

roy_hallums_heads_home.jpgRoy Hallums, the American hostage held in Iraq since November and who's cause was covered extensively at this website, is back in the U.S.

Additionally, the U.S. military has released a video of the rescue operation that led to his release. I will post the video and images from it as soon as I have it. Please e-mail me if you have the video. The video is described below.

Above: A photo taken by Sgt. Jason Mikeworth MNF-I PAO (by way of of DOD) of Roy Hallums shaking hands with Air Force Brig. Gen. Frank Gorenc before boarding a flight home from Iraq.

Susan Hallums sent me an e-mail this morning. I thought I'd share it with you.

Dear Rusty,

I am sorry that it has taken me a few days I have thought of you many many times. I dont have my computer so there has been limited communication.

I have been so thrilled to have Roy back home. We are truly blessed that our prayers were answered and our faith NEVER allowed us to stop believing that Roy would return home.

I didnt know he would request a turkey sandwich and then request to be H-o-m-e, but I am truly extremely thankful and happy for this wonderful outcome.

You were the 1st to help Carrie and I and our interviews are an unforgettable experience, but Roy told me we all helped. We will never forget your huge efforts. My prayers are with the other hostages and their families may God be with them.

Thanksssssssssssssss,
Susan Hallums

And thank you Jawa Report readers for all of your support in the past. The Hallums family is still trying to raise money to cover expenses experienced in this ordeal.

Please visit their website here and donate if you can. more...

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September 09, 2005

Freed Hostage Roy Hallums Heading Home

Roy Hallums, the American civilian held hostage in Iraq freed two days ago by Coalition Forces, is heading home to the United States.

The AP is reporting that Roy boarded a C-17 transport plane at a US Air Force base in Balad, 50 miles north of Baghdad. Sources tell the Jawa Report that Roy will be landing soon and that the Hallums family will meet privately with Roy. In deference to the family's privacy, we will not reveal the location of this reunion.

Roy is said to be in good health, given the extreme conditions he has endured since Nov. 1st of 2004 when he was abducted from his Baghdad neigborhood with other civilian contractors.

A friend of Roy's from Baghdad, 'Hussein', possibly the last man to see him before he was taken hostage, told the following to the BBC upon learning of Roy's release. A friend from the FBI called him and said, "Sit down and don't cry. We have Roy. He is alive."

"No-one seemed to mention him or to care. It's so unfair." He continued.

We at The Jawa Report, at least, cared.

Speaking of what Robert Tarangoy, the Filipino contractor taken hostage with Roy and released several months ago on rumors that Manila had paid a ransom, had been through, Hussein infered what conditions might have been like for Roy.

"He still has to wear sunglasses, even at night, because they kept [Tarangoy] in a hood for eight months while in captivity.

They used him as a punching bag the whole time, every time they [kidnappers] walked past him they'd kick him, or punch him and slap him."

'Hussein', who's name has been changed, says that Roy Hallums' kidnappers had not made contact in the past month and that worries began to mount.

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September 07, 2005

American Hostage Freed, Family Reacts

Hostage Roy Hallums has been freed in Iraq. Members of his family have now confirmed this to me personally. They are elated. Family members are en route to a reunion with Roy as we speak. Thank you for your prayers and thanks to the Coalition Forces for rescuing Roy.

More details here.

Below is a reposting. Updates will be put in original post. Please link to original post. more...

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American Hostage Roy Hallums Rescued in Iraq! (UPDATED)

UPDATE: This post to be updated throughout the day.

Update 13:19: Members of his extended family have now confirmed to me, personally, that Roy has been freed. They are elated. Family members are en route to a reunion with Roy as we speak. Thank you for your prayers and thanks to the Coalition Forces for rescuing Roy.

Many of Roy's family and friends, though, know only as much as they are being told in the media. If you have any tips about information that we are not covering, please e-mail me at mypetjawat-at-gmail-dot-com (remove 'at' and 'dot' and replace).

----
Roy Hallums was abducted on Nov. 1st along with several other foreign contractors. The U.S. state department refused to comment on whether there was an American hostage in Iraq. On Nov. 30th, The Jawa Report reported that an American hostage was being held in Iraq. On Dec. 2nd, Roy's daughter Carrie and his ex-wife Susan contacted The Jawa Report confirming that Roy was taken hostage in Iraq and clarifying his name.

Since that time we have run dozens of stories on Roy and the other forgotten hostages in Iraq. We have also tried to raise funds for the Free Roy Foundation. I have personally been in contact with the Hallums family since our initial story ran. In the last few months I have feared that Roy was dead, but every so often I would get an e-mail from Susan reminding me to keep Roy in my prayers. Her faith, and the faith of Roy's daughters and grandchildren, never waivered.

I have not heard from Susan or Carrie yet, but I expect some word in the near future. While I am not an official spokesperson for the Hallums family, I am sure that Susan and Carrie would express their many thanks for your prayers and support throughout these trying months.

Thank you Jawa Report readers and friends. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

--Rusty Shackleford

-----------------------

Cnn: Is reporting that Roy Hallums has been rescued. Details later. This really is good news.

Developing.

Roy Hallums, the U.S. contractor who was kidnapped in November, is rescued in Iraq, ex-wife says. Details soon.

Hat Tip: Filthy.

Also here on FOXNEWS

"I can confirm he's been released," Susan Hallums, 53, told The Associated Press by telephone. "Considering what he's been through, I understand he's in good condition."
UPDATE from Rusty: Today is one of the happiest days of my life. I'm literally crying.

Update 11:56: NYTimes, hat tip Lawhawk. It looks like Roy was freed thanks to a tip from a detainee. Guantanamo? Probably not, but Abu Ghraib is a distinct possibility:

Coalition forces acting on a tip from an Iraqi detainee Wednesday rescued American hostage Roy Hallums from an isolated farm house south of Baghdad, a military statement said. An Iraqi also was rescued....

Hallums was held in a farmhouse 15 miles south of Baghdad, the statement said, adding that rescuers were tipped to his whereabouts by an unidentified Iraqi detainee.

''I want to thank all of those who were involved in my rescue -- to those who continuously tracked my captors and location, and to those who physically brought me freedom today,'' Hallums said in the military statement.

''To all of you, I will be forever grateful. Both of us are in good health and look forward to returning to our respective families. Thank you to all who kept me and my family in their thoughts and prayers.''

This contradicts earlier reports that Roy Hallums was being held near Fallujah, but makes much more sense.

Related:
-The Free Roy Website, run by Roy's daughter Carrie
-Jawa Report Breaks Roy Hallums Story, Hallums family begins correspondence
-Terrorist release Roy Hallums hostage video.
-The Damned of the West Part I: Interview with the family of Roy Hallums
-The Damned of the West Part II: Interview with the family of Roy Hallums
-The Damned of the West Part III: Interview with the family of Roy Hallums

UPDATE II: More from CNN. more...

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August 17, 2005

Hostage Family on CNN

Carrie and Susan Hallums, the daughter and ex-wife of American hostage Roy Hallums, will be on CNN's Inside Edition today. Susan asks that we please remember Roy Hallums and the other American hostages in Iraq in your prayers.

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June 25, 2005

Roy Hallums Vigil Images

KG from California Mafia attended a vigil held in honor of American hostage in Iraq Roy Hallums. If you missed the last post then you'll be happy to know that new evidence suggests that Roy Hallums is still alive in Iraq.

vigil.jpg

You can see more images from the vigil here.

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June 24, 2005

American Hostage Roy Hallums: ALIVE!!

Yesterday was American hostage Roy Hallums' 57th birthday. A candlelight vigil was held in his honor in Huntington Beach, CA yesterday. Today, we learn that he is definitely still alive.

Do not give up hope. Remember, some of the hostages in Lebanon were held for years. The Hallums' familye-mailed me expressing their thanks to our Jawa Report readers for all your support. Keep the prayers and good vibes flowing people! Xinhua:

An American, who has been kidnapped with a Filipino overseas work in Iraq, is still alive, a Philippine foreign affairs official said Friday.
more...

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June 22, 2005

Filipino Hostage Released in Iraq

This is VERY good news. Not only for the family of Robert Tarangoy, but because Tarangoy was taken hostage along with Roy Hallums. As you know, I've developed something of a relationship with the Hallums family. Keep Roy in your prayers, there is still hope. FYI--if you are in the Southern California area, there will be a candlelight vigil for Roy tomorrow in Huntington Beach. Details here. CNN:

Robert Tarongoy, a Filipino citizen taken hostage in Iraq almost eight months ago, has been freed, Philippines President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo said Wednesday.

In a phone interview with Philippines' GMA television station, an emotional Tarongoy thanked Arroyo, The Associated Press reported. "She did not neglect me," he said, also thanking diplomats who helped win his freedom.

Asked how he was treated by his captors, Tarongoy said, his voice cracking: "You know how long I was kept there. It was difficult," AP reported.

In a written statement announcing his release, Arroyo said: "Robert is now safe in the hands of the Iraq hostage crisis team led by [Foreign] Undersecretary Rafael Seguis who is making the necessary arrangements to bring him back to the Philippines."....

The AP also reported that Seguis told GMA that no ransom was paid and several Middle Eastern countries, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt and Jordan -- along with Muslim clerics -- helped secure Tarongoy's release.

Seguis said Tarongoy could be home as early as Thursday, according to the AP.

Tarongoy's wife -- in the Filipino city of Davao -- told AP her husband's release coincided with their third wedding anniversary.

"It's a very wonderful gift for both of us," she said. "I'm very happy."

It sounds good, so far, that no money was paid. However, there is this from Forbes:
The government of the Philippines secured the release of one of its nationals held hostage in Iraq after agreeing to set demands, the previously unknown armed group which claimed to have held him said, as reported b, Al-Jazeera television reported.

The Doha-based channel broadcast a videotape showing the hostage held by two armed men, reading what they claimed to be a statement by the Philippine foreign ministry, saying it has banned its nationals from travelling to Iraq and adopted a new law to punish those who disobeyed the order.

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June 13, 2005

Candlelight Vigil for American Hostage Roy Hallums

I just got an e-mail from a friend if Roy's, Butch Conner, letting me know that a candlelight vigil will be held for American hostage in Iraq, Roy Hallums. Roy's daughter Carrie says, "It will probably be held in the Huntington Beach area. Please join us on this evening so we can show our support for my Dad and to let him know that we care! June 23rd is my Dad's Birthday, which is why we chose that day. He will be 57 years old."

We'll announce further details later or check Carrie's website here. If you're in the Orange County, CA, area it would be nice if you could show your support.

UPDATE: From Roy's daughter Carrie:

Hi Rusty,
We are going to have it next to the Huntington Beach Pier (off of Main
Street) at 6:45 on Thursday June 23rd. Thank you so much for your help! I
hope you are doing well!!
Take care,
Carrie

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April 28, 2005

The Damned of the West 4: Interview with Carrie Hallums Cooper (part 2)

roy_hallums_carrie_hallums_quote.jpgAmerican Roy Hallums was abducted from his temporary Baghdad home on November 1st, 2004. He was in Iraq as a civilian contractor working on rebuilding efforts. His mission had everything to do with helping the Iraqi people rebuild their country after decades of war, mismanagement, and terror under the Saddam Hussein regime.

I had the opportunity to have several e-mail conversations with both Susan Hallums and Carrie Hallums Cooper recently. They have graciously agreed to letting us interview them. What follows is part 4 in a series of interviews with the family of Roy Hallums. In part 1 and part 2 we interviewd Susan Hallums, Roy Hallums' ex-wife.

In part 3 we interview Roy's daughter, Carrie Hallums Cooper, asking her the same questions we asked her mother. This segment continues that conversation.

Carrrie runs the website Free Roy. Carrie is 29 and makes her home in California where she also works. Carrie has an MFT (Masters of Family Therapy) and is currently pursuing a Ph. D. in Clinical Psychology. Carrie also is engaged in fundraising to help defray costs associated with freeing her father.

You can donate to the Free Roy Foundation by clicking on the Pay Pal button below.


Or you can send a check or money order to

Free Roy Foundation
c/o Carrie Cooper
PO Box 947
Westminster, Ca. 92684

More information is on the Free Roy website. Roy and other heroes will be celebrated at the Inland Empire Memorial Day Heroes Festival in Riverside, CA on May 14th.

-----------------
[You can read part 1 of this interview here]

Rusty Shackleford: Roberto Tarongoy was taken hostage on the same day as Roy, and the Filipino government as recently as two weeks ago claimed that they knew Tarongoy was alive. However, the Philipines has a policy of negotiating with hostage-takers and even paying ransom for hostages release. What are your thoughts on that policy?

Carrie Hallums Cooper: First IÂ’d like to say that I have a great respect for Ivy (RobertÂ’s wife) and the Tarongoy family. If I were in IvyÂ’s shoes I would do whatever I could to free my husband. Cognitively though, I understand that if we (the U.S.) pay ransom for hostages this will only increase more hostage-taking, which is why the United States adheres to this policy. So, from that frame of mind, the Philippines policy of negotiating with hostage-takers may be encouraging more kidnappings, which for the Philippines as a whole is not beneficial.

However, unless you have been a family member of a hostage, you will never understand the lengths that you would go to in order to free your loved one. If I had to choose between policy and my fatherÂ’s life, I would not hesitate to choose my father, and therefore pay a ransom (if I had the money). So, I do not fault the Philippines for listening to their hearts in hostage situations, even though it may encourage more hostage-taking.

I believe that the policy of not negotiating with terrorists was created for the majority (those familyÂ’s whose loved ones are not hostages), and most of the time it works out fine (as long as you stay in the majority). Right now IÂ’m in the minority (a family member of a hostage), so I donÂ’t feel like the policy works for me. I donÂ’t want to put other people in danger by endorsing paying terrorists, which I do think is what happens when you pay ransoms (because it encourages more hostage taking); but at the same time, there has got to be a better policy than to just not deal with the terrorists.

To be honest with you IÂ’m kind of torn about this issue right now. IÂ’m not a policy maker, but I feel like someone could come up with a better solution than what we have in place right now (though I donÂ’t know what it is), so that itÂ’s a win-win situation for everyone. IÂ’m sure the govt. would say that it is win-win now, but I donÂ’t feel like sitting back and letting my Dad rot over in Iraq is win-win for either me or my Dad. more...

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April 26, 2005

The Damned of the West 3: Interview with Carrie Hallums Cooper (part 1)

roy_hallums_susan_hallums_carrie_hallums_quote.jpg
UPDATE 9/07: ROY HALLUMS RESCUED IN IRAQ!!!! Details here. Or try the Main Page.
------------------------------------

American Roy Hallums was abducted from his temporary Baghdad home on November 1st, 2004. He was in Iraq as a civilian contractor working on rebuilding efforts. His mission had everything to do with helping the Iraqi people rebuild their country after decades of war, mismanagement, and terror under the Saddam Hussein regime.

I had the opportunity to have several e-mail conversations with both Susan Hallums and Carrie Hallums Cooper recently. They have graciously agreed to letting us interview them. What follows is part 3 in a series of interviews with the family of Roy Hallums. In part 1 and part 2 we interviewd Susan Hallums, Roy Hallums' ex-wife.

In this segment we interview Roy's daugther, Carrie Hallums Cooper, asking her the same questions we asked her mother. Carrie runs the website Free Roy. Carrie is 29 and makes her home in California where she also works. Carrie has an MFT (Masters of Family Therapy) and is currently pursuing a Ph. D. in Clinical Psychology. Carrie also is engaged in fundraising to help defray costs associated with freeing her father.

You can donate to the Free Roy Foundation by clicking on the Pay Pal button below.


Or you can send a check or money order to

Free Roy Foundation
c/o Carrie Cooper
PO Box 947
Westminster, Ca. 92684

More information is on the Free Roy website. Roy and other heroes will be celebrated at the Inland Empire Memorial Day Heroes Festival in Riverside, CA on May 14th.

freeroymagnet.jpg
-----------------------
Rusty Shackleford: Can you tell our readers a little something about the kind of man Roy is?

Carrie Hallums Cooper: My Dad is the most giving person I have ever met. He did whatever he could to help his family and friends. Some other words that describe him are: thoughtful, kind, intelligent, quiet, athletic, funny, and fun. No one, besides my Mom, has ever treated me as well as my Dad has. My Dad, though far away, was always there for me. He called me all the time and sent me e-mails every day or so.

My Dad has many interests, both socially and intellectually. My Dad likes playing chess with me, going to art museums, walking on the beach or just being in nature (he likes being outdoors), riding his bike, going out to eat, reading, and he likes to listen to classic rock music (which my Mom always hated). He kept up to date on what was cool and hip, at least as much as he could being overseas.

My DadÂ’s dream for when he returned home from the middle east was to have a house by a lake, to own a boat, and to go fishing on the lake. He had recently purchased a home in Memphis near a lake and was excited to buy a small boat so that he could go fishing. I hope that he gets to do that some day.

My Dad was very wise and he always gave me good advice. He encouraged me to continue to do well in school, and for that matter he supported and encouraged me in everything I did. I carry every piece of advice, and all of his love and support, as well as, every memory that we made with me everywhere I go. I treasure it because it may be all that I have left of my father. more...

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April 20, 2005

The Damned of the West (part 2): Interview With Susan Hallums (cont.)

roy_hallums_susan_hallums_quote.jpgUPDATE 9/07: ROY HALLUMS RESCUED IN IRAQ!!!! Details here. Or try the Main Page.
-------------------------------

UPDATE: Part 1 of this interview is here.
In part 3, we interview Roy's daughter Carrie here.

American Roy Hallums was abducted from his temporary Baghdad home on November 1st, 2004. He was in Iraq as a civilian contractor working on rebuilding efforts. His mission had everything to do with helping the Iraqi people rebuild their country after decades of war, mismanagement, and terror under the Saddam Hussein regime.

I had the opportunity to have several e-mail conversations with both Susan Hallums and Carrie Hallums Cooper recently. They have graciously agreed to letting us interview them. What follows is part 2 in a series of interviews with the family of Roy Hallums. Part 1 of that interview can be found here. This segment continues the interview with Susan Hallums.

Susan is Roy Hallums ex-wife and the mother of Roy's two daughters, Amanda and Carrie. Susan is in the process of selling the small house she inherited from her mother. The proceeds from the sale will go for a reward offer for information on Roy's wherabouts in Iraq. You can support Roy Hallums family by sending donations to:

Free Roy Foundation
c/o Carrie Cooper
PO Box 947
Westminster, Ca. 92684

More information is on the Free Roy website.

Rust Shackleford: Ever since we crossed paths I've been following your story and have read that you are in constant contact with the wife of Roberto Tarongoy [a Filipino who was taken hostage with Roy]. Would you like to tell us anything about that relationship? Perhaps there is something you would like to say on behalf of the Tarongoy family?

Susan Hallums: I can't comment on this one Rusty, that is their request.

RS: Have you had any contact with any of the other families of hostages being held in Iraq? Jeffrey Ake, Tim Bell, Bill Bradley, or Dean Sadek, or Mohammed Monaf? If not, is there anything you would like to say to them if you could?

SH: No I havent . I called Jeffrey Ake's company and told them to please call me if they would like to talk to me. That I have been in these terrible shoes for 6 months and if I could help in any way please call me. He has my prayers and hopes that he is released right away. His family also has my prayers and my heart goes out to them. more...

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April 19, 2005

The Damned of the West (part 1): Interview With Susan Hallums

roy_hallums_terry_anderson_quote.jpg

UPDATE 9/07: ROY HALLUMS RESCUED IN IRAQ!!!! Details here. Or try the Main Page.
-------------------------------------------
Update: Part 2 of the interview is here.
Part 3 is an interview with Roy Hallums' daughter is here.

American Roy Hallums was abducted from his temporary Baghdad home on November 1st, 2004. He was in Iraq as a civilian contractor working on rebuilding efforts. His mission had everything to do with helping the Iraqi people rebuild their country after decades of war, mismanagement, and terror under the Saddam Hussein regime.

Roy was taken hostage along with six other foreign nationals, including a Fillipino named Robert Tarongoy. The U.S. did not publish the fact that an American citizen had been taken hostage because of a policy of treating civilian abductions as purely private matters. The Jawa Report was the first publication to identify Roy Hallums as the hostage.

Since that time we have been in contact with members of the Hallums family who started leaving comments at our site. Roy's daughter, Carrie Hallums Cooper, and his ex-wife, Susan Hallums, have been leading the charge to keep Roy's plight in the media.

Unfortunately the mainstream media has tended to bury stories of American hostages in the back pages until something dramatic happens, such as the release of a hostage video. The sad fact is that the American hostages in Iraq are forgotten casualties of war. We find this situation unacceptable and pledge to do our part in keeping these victims in the headlines.

I had the opportunity to have several e-mail conversations with both Susan Hallums and Carrie Hallums Cooper recently. They have graciously agreed to letting us interview them. What follows is part 1 in a series of interviews with the family of Roy Hallums. This segment features an interview with Susan Hallums.

tom_hamill_susan_hallums.jpgSusan is Roy Hallums ex-wife and the mother of Roy's two daughters, Amanda and Carrie. Susan is in the process of selling the small house she inherited from her mother. The proceeds from the sale will go for a reward offer for information on Roy's wherabouts in Iraq. You can support Roy Hallums family by sending donations to:

Free Roy Foundation
c/o Carrie Cooper
PO Box 947
Westminster, Ca. 92684

More information is on the Free Roy website.

Rusty Shackleford: Can you tell our readers a little something about the kind of man Roy is?

Susan Hallums: Roy is the kind of person that is always well liked by most everyone that is fortunate enough to meet him. He is a very kind and caring man. He has always been a great father and grandfather to our daughters and granddaughter. more...

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January 27, 2005

State Department Admits 3 American Hostages 'Probably' in Iraq

AFP reports that the State Department is now admitting that at least 3 Americans are probably alive and being held in Iraq:

"We know of three Americans who are held hostage in Iraq, and then there is a handful of others that are unaccounted for," State Department spokesman Richard Boucher said on Wednesday.

Boucher declined to identify the three or provide any details on their situation, only saying that officials are in regular contact with their families.

By my count there are four, possibly five. They are:

Roy Hallums, Dean Sadek, Tim Bell and Bill Bradley. The Army of Ansar al Sunnah claimed to have killed Spc. Matt "Keith" Maupin on video, but the victim could not be identified as in other videos released by the group.

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January 26, 2005

Ghadaffi calls for Roy Hallums Release

Via Chad at In the Bullpen this story:

Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi on Wednesday called on Iraqi insurgents to release a U.S. hostage [Roy Hallums], responding to the captive's plea for his intervention...

"As a response to the begging, we ask the Iraqi resistance in the name of Islam and Arabism to free him, implementing the principle of forgiveness," the Arab satellite news channel Al-Jazeera quoted Gadhafi as saying in a statement...

What was really meant by Roy Hallums' plea for the Libyan leaders help was that he pay the $12 million ransom demand. Presumably so the terrorist could buy the baby heard in the background of the hostage video some new pampers and some bling-bling.

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Hallums Family Reacts to Hostage Video, $12 million dollar ranson demand made

Susan and Carrie are finally getting some MSM press again. As suspected, the bastards holding Roy are demanding a $12 million ransom. KESQ:

The former wife of an American who was kidnapped in Baghdad and appeared in a recent hostage video is urging President Bush to save him.

Speaking on the "Today" show this morning, Susan Hallums of Corona, California says her former husband Roy is a "patriotic" American hero who needs help....

[speaking of Roy's allusions to Bush] Hallums' daughter, Carrie, says she believes that statement was scripted. She insists he's "always been a supporter of our U-S government."

San Bernadino Sun:
"It was terrible to see him, but good to see him,' said Susan Hallums, Roy's ex-wife. "He's strong, but I could tell he was fearful for his life. He had a machine gun next to his head.'

The Corona woman said she thought Roy looked "pale, thin and fearful.'...

"The week before (the abduction), he e-mailed me every day, and he called (the) kids two or three times a week,' she said. "We were both very close to our children, so that should keep you close friends, and we were.'

Susan Hallums said that although the U.S. government adheres to a strong policy of non-negotiation with terrorists, Roy's former employer, Riyadh-based Saudi Arabian Trading and Construction Co., had been in contact with the hostage-takers since his abduction. The company told her $12 million was being demanded in exchange for her ex-husband's release....

"It hit me this morning when I was crying,' she said despondently while packing her suitcase. "I was devastated. It's still hard to see him. But he's strong and he's brave. If anybody could get through this, he will.'

Fox41.com:
The ex-wife of hostage Roy Hallums is appealing to President Bush to do something to win her ex-husband's freedom in Iraq.

On the tape, Hallums says he won't ask Bush for help because of what he calls Bush's "selfishness and unconcern."

But Susan Hallums says she believes he was forced to say those things. She says he's "an American hero" who "never hurt anybody" and "needs our help."

Posted by: Rusty at 08:34 AM | Comments (2) | Add Comment
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January 25, 2005

Terrorists Release Video of American Hostage Roy Hallums (UPDATED)

royhostagevid.jpg

UPDATE 9/07: ROY HALLUMS RESCUED IN IRAQ!!!! Details here. Or try the Main Page.
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A new video has surfaced showing American hostage Roy Hallums. I have posted a transcription of the video below.

Roy Hallums was abducted on Nov. 1st, 2004 from his apartment in Baghdad along with several other foreign nationals. Roy is a civilian and was in Iraq working on the reconstruction effort. A Fillipino hostage, taken with Roy, was later released [ht: Digger] seems to be still in captivity, even though the government of the Phillippines is directly negotiating with the hostage takers. Roy's abduction was first broken at the Jawa Report on November 30th. We also reported on Roy in the post Remembering the Forgotten American Hostages in Iraq and in our Tribute to American Hostage Roy Hallums). I would urge readers to check the comments on those posts as many of Roy's family and friends have left comments.

UPDATE III: I have obtained a copy of the video. A transcription of it follows. Roy seems in good health, but is obviously agitated. He is seen sitting on the floor, crosslegged, an rubs his hands as he makes the statement. An AK-47 is pointed at his head throughout. At several points in the video a baby can be heard crying in the background. The copy of the video I have may be incomplete as the audio cuts off as Roy continues to speak:

My name is Roy Hallums. I'm an American national and I have worked with the American forces.

I have been arrested by a resistance group in Iraq.

I'm please asking for help because I...my life is in danger because it's been proved that I worked for American forces.

I'm not asking for any help from President Bush because I know of his selfishness and unconcern for those that have been pushed into this hell hole.

I am asking for the help of Arab rulers, especially President Muammar Gaddafi because he's known for helping those who are suffering.

I also ask that Arab leaders help me in this situation so that I can be released as quickly as possible from this definite death. I would remember this favor for the rest of my life, should my life remain.

And I ask my family to help because my health is in a very bad situation.

So please, please I'm asking any one, Arab leader, especially President Gaddafi, please help me in this situation so I can be reunited...(audio ends but lips keep moving)

It is not clear whether this is the end of the video, or if my copy is only partial. No demands are made by his captors. The entire video is in English and Roy is the only one that speaks. The pleas for Ghaddafi's intercession are a first to my knowledge in a hostage video. It is also obvious that Roy is unaware of his families efforts to free him.

Xinhua:

One US citizen, apparently taken hostage in Iraq, has pleaded for his life, according to a video tape released on Tuesday.

The man identifying himself as Roy Hallams said, "I have been arrested by a resistance group in Iraq. I am asking for help because my life is in danger because it's been proved that I work for American forces."

But the authenticity of the video has to be verified.

On the video, the man asked for help from Arab leaders instead of US President George W. Bush. But he fell short of saying when or where he was captured.

UPDATE I: More details of the tape are emerging.....

News24:

A videotape found on Tuesday shows an American abducted last November by gunmen in Baghdad pleading for his life and appealing to Arab rulers including Libyan leader Muammar Gadhafi to intercede to spare his life...

On the tape, Hallums, with a rifle pointed at his head, stated his name and said "I have worked with American forces."

"I am please asking for help because my life is in danger because it's been proved I worked for American forces," he said. "I'm not asking for any help from President Bush because I know of his selfishness and unconcern for those who've been pushed into this hellhole."

Hallums, speaking slowly, said he was asking for help from "Arab rulers especially President Muammar Gaddafi because he's known for helping those who are suffering."

"I also ask that Arab leaders help me in this situation so I can be released as quickly as possible from this definite end," he added. "I would remember this favour for the rest of my life should my life remain and I ask my family to help because my health is in a very bad situation."

Ghaddafi?? Bad words against Bush?? This does not sound like the Roy Hallums as described to me by his family and friends. I'm sure the rifle pointed at his head had something to do with his pleas.

Further, the intervention on the part of Ghaddafi may be a hidden plea for money. Robert Tarongoy, the Fillipino abducted with Roy, was released reportedly after ransom was paid. How else could Ghaddafi help??

UPDATE II: More details from ABC News:

The undated video shows American contractor Roy Hallums, who was seized with five colleagues in Baghdad in November, sitting cross-legged in front of a black background anxiously rubbing his hands as he makes an appeal to the camera....

"I have been arrested by a resistance group in Iraq," 56-year-old Hallums, dressed in civilian clothes and his beard flecked with white, says on the tape.

"I'm asking for help because my life is in danger because it's been proved that I work for American forces."

As he speaks, the barrel of an assault rifle is held inches from his head. Unlike other tapes made by militants of hostages seized in Iraq, no flags or banners of an organization appear in the picture and no demands are made.

ABC News:

Susan Hallums said she kept her ex-husband's kidnapping a secret for weeks after finding out that he had been abducted in Iraq this past November.

Now her former husband's pleas for mercy are being heard by the world. A newly released videotape shows missing American Roy Hallums pleading at gunpoint for Arab rulers to let him live.

Susan Hallums told ABC News' "Good Morning America" — in an interview that aired on Dec. 19 — that she hoped speaking out about her former husband of 32 years might help him be released.

"He's on the quiet side Â… in every walk of life he's always been very well-liked and well-received," Susan Hallums said on "GMA."

When Susan Hellums and her two grown daughters were first told of her her ex-husband's abduction, she said they were asked by authorities to refrain from discussing it with anyone else. She said she decided to speak out after reading about his fellow captive.

Roy Hallums, 56, was abducted on Nov. 1 along with Robert Tarongoy of the Philippines. The kidnappings took place after an armed assault on their compound in Baghdad. Roy Hallums and Tarongoy had been working for a Saudi company that does catering for the Iraqi army.

Susan Hallums, 52, said her former husband was supposed to come home in late November. She said he'd planned to stay through his daughter Carrie's birthday in late December.

His daughter Carrie Cooper told "GMA" that she hoped his captors would show mercy if they knew he had a family.

"Please let my dad go," she pleaded with his kidnappers on "GMA," before telling her father "I love you and I hope you can come home soon."

Carrie Hallums has set up a tribute page to her father here.

Susan Hallums, Roy's ex-wife, sent me this e-mail a week ago. Let me share part of it with you:

Father, I ask You to bless my friends, relatives and email buddies reading this right now. Show them a new revelation of Your love and power. Holy Spirit, I ask You to minister to their spirit at this very moment. Where there is pain, give them Your peace and mercy. Where there is self-doubt, release a renewed confidence through Your race. Bless their homes, families, finances, their goings and their comings.

Amen.

Amen.

Roy's family has made these 'Save Roy' magnets, and may be purchased by sending a minumum donation of $3 to the 'Free Roy Foundation' at:

Hallums Family
PO Box 947
Westminster, Ca. 92684

Click Image to Enlarge

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