WASHINGTON, Aug. 1 (UPI) -- The recent rescue of three U.S. private military contractors, held for more than five years by the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia, highlights one of the perils of the industry -- they don't get the same legal protections as regular military combatants.

BOGOTA, July 13 (UPI) -- The U.S. government played a key role in the events leading up to this month's rescue of 15 hostages in the Colombian jungle, an official said.

SAN ANTONIO, July 11 (UPI) -- The three American contractors rescued from the Colombian jungle cited gruesome living conditions but found missing their families hardest to take.

BOGOTA, July 9 (UPI) -- The United States will ask Colombia to extradite two men detained in the mission that freed 15 hostages, including three Americans, Colombian officials said.

SAN ANTONIO , July 5 (UPI) -- Three U.S. contractors released this week after five years as hostages of left-wing guerrillas in Colombia said Friday they are "overwhelmed with emotion."

BOGOTA, July 3 (UPI) -- Freed Colombian hostage Ingrid Betancourt Thursday said the leftist rebels who held her for six years should engage in peace talks.

BOGOTA, July 2 (UPI) -- A former Colombian presidential candidate and three U.S. citizens were among 15 hostages rescued Wednesday from leftist rebels in Colombia.

BOGOTA, Oct. 4 (UPI) -- U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates discussed a humanitarian agreement with Colombian President Alvaro Uribe Thursday in Colombia for three American hostages.

BOGOTA, Feb. 13 (UPI) -- Three U.S. defense contractors have been held captive by Colombia's leading leftist rebel group for four years as of Tuesday.