A week ago, the world watched breathlessly as each Wild Boar and their coach were arduously extracted from the depths of the earth and reunited with the wind, the sun and the sky. The innocence of their story and the absence of grandstanding by the international rescue team metaphorically underscored the indomitability of the human spirit, the pureness of selfless effort and the randomness of sheer luck. This was a master class in crisis management.
Live Gripping Drama
Nothing was packaged, produced or scripted. Rather the opposite. Like players in a Shakespearean play, we watched the drama unfold over three achingly long weeks without interpretation, sensationalism or blame.
When former Navy SEAL Samar Kunan died delivering oxygen tanks to assist the rescue effort, we felt a collective stab and braced for more tragedies. Yet, the work continued, unabated. Quiet.
Rescuers Manage the Mission and the Media
When the actual rescue mission commenced, Quiet. It wasn’t until the first Wild Boar was delivered from the watery tomb that we heard the triumphant news and awaited the 12 sequels. The rescuers even self-corrected after prematurely celebrating before the remaining Thai Navy Seals and the Australian medic had safely exited the Tham Luang cave.
Keep Their Story Pure
The quarantined Wild Boars are expected to be released later this week. Countless story tellers with deep pockets are angling for the exclusive on their improbable odyssey. At a time when nothing seems sacred from spin and exploitation, the Wild Boars and the Navy Seals have an opportunity. Soon the cocoon will be pierced. Navigate this last passage and ban together to preserve the integrity, dignity and heroics of your story and thrill the world for years to come.