Summary of Ep 246 | EMERGENCY PODCAST: Save ‘Baby Sparrow’ from the Taliban | The Glenn Beck Podcast

Introduction

In Episode 246 of The Glenn Beck Program, hosted by the Blaze Podcast Network, Glenn Beck engages in a compelling and emotional discussion with Joshua and Stephanie Mast. The episode delves into their harrowing journey to save their adopted daughter, referred to as "Baby Sparrow," from the Taliban amid the chaotic withdrawal of U.S. forces from Afghanistan. This detailed account sheds light on the interplay between military operations, bureaucratic hurdles, and personal resilience.

The Story of Baby Sparrow

Recovery from Afghanistan

At the heart of the episode is the Masts' story of Baby Sparrow, a five-year-old girl originally recovered by U.S. Marines during a mission in Afghanistan in 2019. Joshua Mast, an active-duty Marine major, recounts the mission on September 6th, 2019, where Marines were tasked with targeting Al Qaeda leaders. During intense combat, Sparrow's mother, a suicide bomber, attempted to detonate herself but was unable to kill the baby. Instead, the child survived with severe injuries.

Notable Quote:

"We wrestled with the decision because she could go through her whole life in Afghanistan with a completely different identity and never know that she had another name and that she wasn't anonymous. She was loved by hundreds and prayed for by hundreds of people."
— Glenn Beck [08:42]

Initial Adoption Efforts

Moved by her plight, Joshua and Stephanie Mast decided to adopt Sparrow, driven by a profound sense of duty and compassion. They navigated the complexities of international adoption, striving to bring her to the United States for safety and medical care. Their attempt was met with resistance from the State Department, complicating the adoption process significantly.

Notable Quote:

"Our presence is going to end very rapidly and then what's going to happen? Because a lot of the funding is going to be attached to that."
— Joshua Mast [06:15]

Government and Bureaucratic Challenges

State Department Involvement

The Masts faced substantial opposition from the State Department, which pressured them to relinquish custody of Sparrow, citing her as a potential foreign terrorist. This led to intense legal battles, ultimately culminating in a court case in Virginia. The couple argues that bureaucratic inefficiencies and conflicting policies endangered Sparrow’s safety, as she was supposed to be placed under their guardianship but was instead handed over to individuals with dubious affiliations.

Notable Quote:

"It's about her, but we're one of many people that have cared for her. We are her adoptive parents, and we have advocated for her, but we represent a lot of people that do that."
— Glenn Beck [90:28]

Legal Battle in Virginia

Joshua and Stephanie Mast are currently embroiled in a legal fight to retain custody of Sparrow. They claim that the State Department, influenced by powerful law firms (including connections to Hunter Biden's law office), has unfairly undermined their adoption. The case highlights significant discrepancies between classified intelligence and the actions taken by federal agencies, raising questions about accountability and transparency within the U.S. government.

Notable Quote:

"They have gotten a letter writing campaign going. Not just the mega firm, some other related organizations that support that type of thing, but they've written over 7,000 letters to Congress..."
— Joshua Mast [85:31]

Current Status and Conclusion

After enduring years of bureaucratic red tape and personal sacrifice, Baby Sparrow is now with the Masts in the United States. However, the legal battle remains ongoing, with a critical hearing scheduled before the Virginia Supreme Court. The Masts advocate passionately for policy reforms to prevent such injustices, urging listeners to support their cause through advocacy and raising awareness.

Notable Quote:

"We think that if an objective person looks. I guess... we went through a board of inquiry and you said you can't fight the government. That's true. Unless you have a little bit of due process, then they have to give you stuff and it's harder to hide things."
— Joshua Mast [82:35]

Key Takeaways

• Humanitarian Efforts Amid War: The episode underscores the profound impact of individual actions within the larger context of international conflict, highlighting the Masts' dedication to saving an innocent child.

• Bureaucratic Obstacles: The narrative reveals significant challenges posed by government agencies in international adoption cases, particularly in conflict zones where political and military interests intersect.

• Legal and Ethical Implications: The Masts' legal struggle against powerful institutions raises critical questions about the rights of adoptive parents, the protection of vulnerable children, and the integrity of governmental processes.

• Resilience and Advocacy: Joshua and Stephanie Mast exemplify resilience in the face of systemic obstacles, advocating for policy changes to ensure that other families do not face similar challenges.

Conclusion

Episode 246 of The Glenn Beck Program provides a poignant and in-depth look into the Masts' courageous efforts to save Baby Sparrow from peril. Through their story, listeners gain insight into the complexities of military operations, the pitfalls of bureaucratic interference, and the unwavering spirit of those committed to humanitarian causes. The episode calls for greater transparency and reform within governmental institutions to better protect and support individuals in similar situations.

Notable Quote:

"What her future hangs in the balance. She needs help."
— Stephanie Mast [03:50]

Final Thoughts

The podcast serves as both a testament to personal bravery and a critique of institutional shortcomings. It encourages listeners to engage in advocacy and support for families navigating international adoption under extraordinary circumstances.