Todd Tiahrt: “Today marks the 264th day that Martin and Gracia Burnham have been held captive by Muslim terrorists in the Philippines.…”

“Today marks the 264th day that Martin and Gracia Burnham have been held captive by Muslim terrorists in the Philippines. Today is Valentine's Day, a day focused on celebrating love 365 days a year, not just on February 14. The Burnhams have a beautiful marriage and were on a trip celebrating their 18th anniversary when taken hostage by the Abu Sayaf group. Since then they have continued to remain devoted to each other. Martin often gives his food to Gracia, though neither of them has enough to eat. In a video in November, Gracia describes how she shouts 'I love you' to Martin when they are caught in gun fire. She wants to be sure she gets to say it one last time. Martin and Gracia also greatly love their three beautiful children, Jeff, Mindy and Zach. They have missed Father's Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, each child's birthday, and now this day, to celebrate love. In letters they have expressed their devastation at being separated from their children. Even during this awful nightmare, they have shared their love with each other and with others. Fellow hostages who have been released relate the Burnhams' attempts to encourage and comfort other captives. Gracia recited home recipes with other hostages to take their minds off the situation. As we contact our loved ones today, let us not forget Martin and Gracia Burnham.”