The world is getting its first look at 12 boys and their soccer coach in the hospital in Chiang Rai, Thailand.
A day after the final four boys and their 25-year-old coach were rescued from a cave system, the group is being kept in quarantine to minimize the risk of infection.
The boys can be seen wearing green surgical masks, lying in their hospital beds, chatting with nurses and making V-for-victory signs with their fingers.
Some of their parents are crying and waving to them from behind glass.
A director of Chiang Rai Prachanukroh Hospital told a news conference involving officials involved in the rescue that "everyone is strong in mind and heart.''
In this image made from video, released by Thailand Government Spokesman Bureau, family members watch the rescued boys through a window outside the recovery ward at the Chiang Rai hospital in Chiang Rai province, northern Thailand, Wednesday, July 11, 2018. (Thailand Government Spokesman Bureau via AP)
Staff also report one member of the final group of four boys and the coach who arrived at a hospital Tuesday evening had a slight lung infection.
Two of the first group had a lung infection as well, and would need medicine for seven days.
Thailand's Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha gave a televised national address Wednesday, saying the government's efforts, the assistance of people in Thailand and abroad, and the outpouring of moral support made the mission a success.
Kisses and waves from parents of the boys #ThaiCaveRescue - these are some of the first videos being released. They are all reportedly recovering well. @CTVNews pic.twitter.com/U4CBZTyy7O
— Peter Akman (@PeterAkman) July 11, 2018
He also acknowledged the loss of a former navy SEAL, Saman Kunan, who died last week while replenishing air tanks inside the cave.
Prayuth said, "His honour, sacrifice and legacy will forever be in our hearts.''
The soccer teammates had become trapped in the cave June 23 and were finally extracted by experienced divers over three days.
— with files from The Canadian Press