US aviator shot down over Iran recalls 'free-falling' before his dangerous rescue
The April rescue operation to recover the downed aircrew saw the first US boots on the ground in Iran in 46 years, American officials say.
Coverage by Political Leaning
See how different sides of the spectrum reported this story
Notable Quotes
"At one point, when I looked up and saw no parachute, that was the most terrifying thing I've ever seen."
— Bravo , Other
"Free-falling is a good way to put it."
— Bravo , Other
"It was a gun fight all the way in and all the way out."
— Pete Hegseth , Executive
"I predict that the war will continue until at least election day on 3 November."
— Donald Trump , Politician
Key People
US Air Force pilot who was ejected from a damaged plane and rescued during an operation in Iran.
US Central Command chief.
US Air Force pilot involved in a rescue operation after being shot down over Iran.
Former president of the United States known for his aggressive economic policies.
Pete Hegseth is the United States Secretary of Defense.
Locations
All Coverage
The April rescue operation to recover the downed aircrew saw the first US boots on the ground in Iran in 46 years, American officials say.
Similar Stories
Related coverage based on topic and tags
UK links Iran to suspected plot outside airbase used by US bombers - Reuters
UK links Iran to suspected plot outside airbase used by US bombers Reuters
September 30, 2026 at 04:19 PMIran link examined as UK police quiz five men held at airbase used by US - Reuters
Iran link examined as UK police quiz five men held at airbase used by US Reuters
September 28, 2026 at 11:29 AMUK-Iranian dual national bailed after RAF Fairford incident arrest
The 25-year-old man was arrested in the London borough of Westminster on Thursday.
October 3, 2026 at 10:58 AMPlummeting Israel flight like 'rollercoaster', says passenger
An aeroplane flying to Israel fell 17,000ft (5,200m) in less than two minutes before it was diverted.
October 1, 2026 at 03:52 AMUS forces exit Iraq after two decades, leaving opening for Iran - Reuters
US forces exit Iraq after two decades, leaving opening for Iran Reuters
September 29, 2026 at 06:05 AMPODCAST: Iran-US diplomacy, RAF Fairford and Brazil elections - Reuters
PODCAST: Iran-US diplomacy, RAF Fairford and Brazil elections Reuters
September 27, 2026 at 04:01 PM