MINNEAPOLIS (AP) - The families of two Americans freed from an Iranian prison are calling today the best day of their lives.

Shane Bauer and Josh Fattal were driven out of a prison in Tehran on Wednesday, nearly 26 months after being arrested near the Iraq-Iran border.

They were convicted of espionage and sentenced to eight years in prison but were freed on bail.

Their families and Sarah Shourd, who was arrested with the men but freed earlier, were in Oman to meet the men. They said in a statement that their joy and relief "knows no bounds" and they are looking forward to a new beginning.

The families also thanked people around the world for supporting the men's release.

Bauer attended school in Onamia from 7th through 10th grade.  His mother, Cindy Hickey, lives in Pine City.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)

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