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
Russian glide bomb attack on Zaporizhzhia kills at least 15 people
Children are among the victims, authorities say, and more victims could still be buried in the rubble of a large apartment block that was destroyed.
October 10, 2026 at 11:17 AMGermany sticks to Russia sanctions after Trump announcement on diesel - Reuters
Germany sticks to Russia sanctions after Trump announcement on diesel Reuters
October 10, 2026 at 10:59 AMThe midterm strategy driving Democrats deep into Trump country - Reuters
The midterm strategy driving Democrats deep into Trump country Reuters
October 10, 2026 at 10:05 AMRussian attack on Ukrainian city kills 12, a day after Trump eases diesel sanctions on Moscow - Reuters
Russian attack on Ukrainian city kills 12, a day after Trump eases diesel sanctions on Moscow Reuters
October 10, 2026 at 06:39 AM'Stain on the country': Trump criticises Norway over Nobel Peace Prize
The US president told a rally he had "never heard of" the winner, former International Criminal Court judge Navi Pillay.
October 10, 2026 at 04:07 AMTrump says Norway has 'indelible stain' for not awarding him Nobel Peace Prize - Reuters
Trump says Norway has 'indelible stain' for not awarding him Nobel Peace Prize Reuters
October 10, 2026 at 01:32 AM