US RESCUES SECOND F-15 CREW MEMBER FROM IRAN

SUMMARY

The United States successfully rescued the second crew member of an F-15 fighter jet that was shot down over Iran, completing what President Trump called "one of the most daring search and rescue operations in U.S. history."

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THE INCIDENT

• An F-15E fighter jet was shot down by Iranian air defenses on Friday, April 3, 2026, over southwest Iran
• The two-person crew — a pilot and a weapons system officer — both ejected from the aircraft
• The incident occurred during the sixth week of the ongoing U.S.-Iran conflict

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THE RESCUE OPERATIONS

First Crew Member (Pilot)

• Rescued several hours after the jet was shot down on Friday

Second Crew Member (Weapons System Officer)

• A colonel who was rescued on Saturday, April 5
• Wounded after ejecting but could still walk
• Evaded capture in the mountains for more than a day
• Rescued by U.S. special forces in a dangerous Saturday night operation with heavy air cover
• "Sustained injuries, but he will be just fine," according to Trump

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CASUALTIES & LOSSES

U.S. Forces:

• During rescue operations, Iran struck a U.S. Blackhawk helicopter, wounding crew members (though it continued flying)

Iranian Claims:

• Iran claimed to have shot down additional U.S. aircraft, including:
  • A C-130 transport plane
  • An A-10 attack aircraft

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TRUMP'S RESPONSE

• Confirmed the rescue on Truth Social, describing it as "miraculous"
• Touted U.S. "overwhelming air dominance"
• Issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz or face "devastating consequences"