American Captain Richard Phillips is rescued and unharmed, three pirates killed

In initial reports by CNN, Captain Richard Phillips was rescued and three pirates were killed.

The official said Capt. Richard Phillips is uninjured and in good condition, and that three of the four pirates were killed. The fourth pirate is in custody. Phillips was taken aboard the USS Bainbridge, a nearby naval warship.

Earlier Sunday afternoon Maersk Line Limited, owner of the Maersk Alabama, said the U.S. Navy informed the company that it had sighted Phillips in a lifeboat where pirates are holding him.

Phillips was spotted another time earlier in the day, the Navy said.

A man who answered the door at Phillips' home in Underhill, Vermont, told CNN's Stephanie Elam that the family has known the news for hours. He said details would have to come from Virginia, apparently referring to the home base of Maersk Line Limited, based in Norfolk, which owns the ship.

While details are sketchy at this time, this would appear to be a victory for the Obama Administration in its first foreign policy test. During the 2008 Presidential campaign, the criticism was often heard on Obama's ability to handle a crisis. We may have our answer. Chicago City Hall Examiner.