I couldn't get through with your link but it worked with:
http://www.mercurynews.com/news/ci_9919742Neat story.
As I read it it sounds like three C-130s: one to drop the para-jumpers earlier and two to refuel. One to get the rescue out 16 hours later and loiter and a third that arrives as they turn for home. Cost a pretty penny I bet.
Oh well, I'm glad they did it. It isn't like the choice was between spending the time and resources or giving the cash equivalent to me. Not many other nations could, or would, do it. Fewer still for a common fisherman down on his luck.
Good to see we can still get some things right.