Hunt continues for hostage, Camp Pendleton-trained Marine veteran in Syria

In Oceanside, California, the family of Austin Tice, a Marine veteran and freelance journalist, is holding a vigil as the search for him intensifies in Syria. The urgency of the situation has escalated following the recent fall of the Assad regime. Tice was abducted in 2012 while covering the uprising against Assad. His family remains hopeful that the changing political landscape may lead to his release. Naomi Tice, Austin’s sister, expressed a mix of hope and anxiety as they await news about his whereabouts.

The Search for Austin Tice: A Family’s Hope

Naomi Tice spoke about the emotional toll the search for her brother has taken on the family. “The situation is extremely urgent,” she stated during a recent Zoom interview. The anticipation of reuniting with Austin has never been higher. Since his abduction, the family has faced countless holidays and milestones without him. Naomi reflected on the emotional weight of these moments, saying, “There are a lot of emotions. There is hope and anticipation.”

Austin Tice, a former Marine captain trained at Camp Pendleton, was taken while reporting in Syria. A video released shortly after his abduction showed him blindfolded and held by armed men. Despite the Assad regime’s denial of his captivity, many believe he is still alive and being held in Damascus. With the regime’s recent fall, there are reports of rebels freeing prisoners, which has sparked renewed hope for Austin’s family.

American Travis Timmerman was recently found wandering outside Damascus after being freed from captivity. He reported that he was treated well during his six months in prison. Naomi sees Timmerman’s experience as a beacon of hope for her brother’s situation. “It really gives us hope when he’s found he will be healthy and treated the same,” she said. The family is now relying on various rescue groups on the ground, who are actively searching for Austin.

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Urgent Calls for Action from U.S. Officials

As the search continues, Naomi Tice is urging U.S. officials to take more decisive action. She believes that reaching out to the new authorities in Syria could provide vital information about her brother’s whereabouts. “We need to ask Assad for information about Austin,” she emphasized. The family is also encouraged by the FBI’s recent release of an age-progression photo of Austin, along with a $1 million reward for tips leading to his safe return.

Naomi’s hope is palpable as she envisions the day when her family can finally embrace Austin again. “I think it’s just gonna be so full of love,” she said. However, she also recognizes the challenges that lie ahead. Austin will need support to reintegrate into a world that has changed significantly since his detention. The family is committed to understanding his needs and providing the necessary help.

As the situation unfolds, the Tice family remains vigilant. They are determined to keep Austin’s story alive and to advocate for his safe return. The hope for reunion fuels their efforts, and they continue to call for action from U.S. officials and the international community. The Tice family’s unwavering love and determination serve as a reminder of the human cost of conflict and the enduring hope for resolution.