The whole thing took all of 3 minutes. The extendedfamily, whom I would imagine Elian had never met until plucked from the sea, had more than 3 months of negotiations in which to reach a compromise. There were published reports which quoted American vetereans who said they were protecting the family's home, with weapons, and would give their lives to keep Elian there.

What the hell else was our government to do; let the family lead them around by a nose ring for another upteen months, while they milk the publicity for all it's worth and disregard the laws of their adopted country?

Now, what poor unfortunate child star will be tapped for the role of elian!?