US Soldier Recalls Jesse Jackson’s Efforts to Free Him and others

Published: 18 February 2026. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online

A former US Army sergeant has vividly recalled how civil rights icon Reverend Jesse Jackson played a pivotal role in securing his freedom and that of two fellow soldiers who were held as prisoners of war (POWs) during the Kosovo conflict in 1999, highlighting a lesser-known chapter of Jackson’s legacy beyond civil rights activism. The soldier’s tribute comes in the wake of Jackson’s death at age 84, prompting reflections on his wide-ranging humanitarian efforts.

In March 1999, Sergeant Andrew Ramirez, along with Sergeant Christopher Stone and Specialist Steven Gonzales, was captured near the Macedonian-Yugoslav border during a routine patrol amid escalating tensions between NATO and Yugoslav forces. The trio was held prisoner for over a month in a Serbia embroiled in war, with little hope of release as diplomatic channels faltered.

Unbeknownst to the soldiers, a bold initiative was underway led by Jesse Jackson, then a prominent civil rights leader known for his “private diplomacy” on behalf of Americans held abroad. Despite warnings from the US State Department and resistance from the Clinton administration, Jackson organised a delegation — including then-Congressman Rod Blagojevich — to travel to Belgrade and press for their release.

Jackson refused to go unless he could meet the captives and insisted on securing the freedom of all three soldiers rather than just one or two, according to participants in the negotiations. His team engaged directly with Yugoslav authorities, navigating tense discussions against the backdrop of an ongoing NATO bombing campaign.

On 1 May 1999, after weeks of negotiation, Yugoslav forces freed Ramirez and the other two soldiers. They walked out of captivity — still unaware that Jackson and his delegation had been working behind the scenes on their behalf. Ramirez later recalled the surreal moment when he saw Jackson standing among the American and international media as they were released. “He did something for us. He didn’t have to do that,” Ramirez said, adding that Jackson had expressed confidence that they would be going home together.

Ramirez remained in touch with Jackson after his military service, visiting him in Chicago and introducing him to his family. The heartfelt recollection underlines how Jackson’s efforts — rooted not just in civil rights but in humanitarian outreach — brought hope and freedom to individuals in desperate circumstances.

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