Speaking of apologizing for the troops, remember the Chinese, Mr. Bush?

Was that a real wimpified action to take back then just like the British are doing right now with the Iranians?

Via Vanity Press, part of the apology letter to the Chinese:

Dear Mr. Minister:

On behalf of the United States government, I now outline steps to resolve this issue.

Both President Bush and Secretary of State Powell have expressed their sincere regret over your missing pilot and aircraft. Please convey to the Chinese people and to the family of pilot Wang Wei that we are very sorry for their loss.

Although the full picture of what transpired is still unclear, according to our information, our severely crippled aircraft made an emergency landing after following international emergency procedures. We are very sorry the entering of China's airspace and the landing did not have verbal clearance, but very pleased the crew landed safely. We appreciate China's efforts to see to the well-being of our crew.

So. What on earth did the rightwingers expect the 15 hostages to do? Die?