21.   If convicted, the three could face a maximum life sentence, although a much lighter sentence is more likely.

22.   In Ukraine, the three face charges of illegally crossing the Ukrainian border, illegal possession of guns, smuggling foreign currency and keeping a hostage.

23.   Last Thursday the human rights organization Amnesty International expressed fears the three might be facing ill-treatment or torture while in detention.

24.   Later Thursday, the Tanjug state news agency reported the three would face military court proceedings Friday.

25.   On the Madison Square Garden carpet in New York, all three face uphill battles.

26.   Once on the ground, the three faced a battery of medical tests in Florida and Houston.

27.   Only three will immediately face the charges because six of the Cubans were sent back to their home country after the standoff.

28.   The maximum penalty the three faced were life terms.

29.   The other three face charges, including armed robbery and planting explosives.

30.   The maximum term the three faced was life.