US Air Force officer recounts ejection and survival after F-15 downed over Iran

An Air Force weapons systems officer, identified only by his call sign “Bravo,” told CBS’s “60 Minutes” that a shoulder-fired missile struck his F-15E on April 2, causing a violent impact that he likened to being hit by a freight train. The pilot, referred to as “Alpha,” ejected both crew members, and Bravo began a free-fall toward a mountainous desert region.

"I will be thankful to my dying day for my pilot and crewmate, Alpha, for saving our lives and ejecting us," Bravo said.

During the descent Bravo observed that his parachute had been damaged, a situation he described as the most frightening he had ever experienced. He estimated his impact speed at 70 to 100 miles per hour and said his survival was a “modern-day miracle.” The fall resulted in injuries to his back, arm and shoulder.

After landing, Bravo trekked across rugged terrain, climbing a 7,000-foot ridgeline to avoid capture. He remained behind enemy lines for two days without food or water until two elite Air Force pararescue operators reached him and extracted him from the area.

The segment highlighted the rescue as one of the most complex and risky operations in recent U.S. military history. The interview did not include Alpha, who landed about five miles from Bravo.

The story aired as part of the season premiere of the newsmagazine, which has undergone recent staff changes and introduced new correspondents.