In just two weeks, the U.S. Marshals and Florida officials rescued 60 missing or trafficked children — in what’s now being called the most successful operation of its kind in American history.

The mission, known as Operation Dragon Eye, focused on children in Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco counties — ages 9 to 17. 20 agencies and over 100 personnel worked together to track, rescue, and protect the victims.

Florida AG James Uthmeier declared, “We are here to announce the most successful completion of the largest child rescue operation, not just in Florida history, but in U.S. history.”

US Marshal William Berger added, “Experience tells us, if the offenders are not apprehended, they will reconnect with these children.” Behind him stood photos of the eight suspects arrested — now facing charges from trafficking to drug crimes, with some bonds set at up to $250 million.

And here’s the moment it all broke online:

But the real question: why does it take a once-in-a-generation operation to protect the most vulnerable?