A North Texas nuclear scientist escaped Russian-controlled territory in Ukraine on Tuesday with the help of Project DYNAMO, a nonprofit organization dedicated to rescuing Americans abroad.
After retiring from the U.S. weapons industry, John Spor decided to move to Ukraine. He was living in Mariupol when the Russian military attacked in late February.
He left his home and went into hiding for nearly four months, fearing he would become a prisoner and possibly be tortured during interrogation.
Spor was reportedly well known in the United States for designing technology for laser-guided weapon systems used by the U.S. military. Due to the unique nature of his work, Spor was a high-value target that Chechen-Russian forces “have been actively hunting.”
His sister, Lauri Weigle, tried her best to rescue him. She made emergency evacuation assistance requests to the U.S. State Department and the offices of Senator Ted Cruz and Congressman Randy Weber.
The State Department and Senator Cruz referred her to Project DYNAMO.
The Tampa-based nonprofit organization Project Dynamo was founded during the withdrawal of U.S. troops from Afghanistan. Veterans volunteers risked their lives to evacuate Americans and Afghan allies left behind by the U.S. military.
Project DYNAMO is now conducting rescue missions in Ukraine as well.
“I honestly didn’t think [Project DYNAMO was] going to get me out of there,” said Spor to WFAA. “Being rescued was like total boredom and terror at the same time, and nobody’s prepared for that.”
Bryan Stern, the co-founder of Project DYNAMO, clandestinely transported Spor past more than 30 Russian checkpoints and into Ukrainian-controlled territory.
To conceal Spor’s whereabouts and movements from Russian security services, Stern used a variety of techniques that he had developed throughout his many years of military service.
“Project DYNAMO has been with our family every step of the way through this nightmare,” said Weigle. “DYNAMO has been the answer to our family’s prayers. We are in amazement that [my brother] is finally on his way to us and safe after months of hoping and praying.”
Spor and Stern are currently safe in Poland. Spor anticipates returning to Texas by next week.
“I’m so grateful for Project DYNAMO and the support they have provided to me and my family during this time,” said Sean Spor, John’s son. “They’ve rescued my dad from harm’s way, and I am eagerly awaiting his arrival.”
