As Family Prays for U.S. Soldier, Clinton Said Capture Shows Taliban's 'Desperation'

Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said capture is sign of "desperation."

ByABC News
July 19, 2009, 12:12 PM

July 20, 2009— -- As the U.S. government works feverishly to find Pfc. Bowe Bergdahl, the American soldier captured by the Taliban in Afghanistan, residents of the quiet community where Bergdahl grew up are remembering a spunky young man who they described as easy going, and always eager to try new things, even ballet.

Bergdahl, 23, of Hailey, Idaho, went missing from his base in eastern Afghanistan June 30, and on July 3, officials declared him "missing-captured."

Residents of Hailey and neighboring Ketchum are displaying their patriotism and best wishes for Bergdahl's safe return.

Hailey resident Jackie Mizer told ABC News that word of Bergdahl's capture has been tough for the community to take. "It's a horrible thing to happen to anyone, but when it strikes home, it's much worse. It's much more personal," she said.

All around town, residents like Mizer are putting up signs, candles and yellow ribbons, small gestures with a much larger meaning. "I'm hoping that the sign, as simple as it is, indicates to the family that we're thinking about them," Mizer said.

"They're clearly shaken," family friend Sue Martin told "Good Morning America" of the Bergdahls today. "It's a struggle for everybody. I think they're doing as well as can be expected."

Martin owns Zany's Coffee shop, where Bergdahl worked for about two years.

As the family requests their privacy during this difficult time, the coffee shop has become a hub for locals and outsiders alike to express their support and concerns. Owner Sue Martin tells ABC News they've received calls from as far away as Jamaica.

Martin tells ABC News that Bergdahl "worked hard and was well-liked by customers."

"He was very easy going. He joked with them (customers) and was very helpful and was a very intelligent young man. And I think he appreciated customers and they appreciated him."

Martin said Bergdahl was always trying new and different things, including ballet.