Trump Honors Heroic Pilot with Presidential Medal of Freedom

President Donald Trump has awarded Chief Warrant Officer Eric Slover the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his courageous actions during a mission to capture Nicolás Maduro in Venezuela. Despite being wounded while piloting a Chinook helicopter, Slover played a crucial role in the operation's planning and execution. This recognition highlights his distinguished service and the risks faced by military personnel in high-stakes missions. Read on to learn more about this heroic act and its implications.

By Narendra Chaudhary Feb 25, 2026, 09:46 IST

Recognition for Valor in Combat

In a significant ceremony, President Donald Trump presented Chief Warrant Officer Eric Slover with the prestigious Presidential Medal of Freedom. This honor was bestowed upon Slover for his bravery after sustaining injuries while piloting a US Army Chinook helicopter during a critical mission aimed at capturing former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. Slover was instrumental in the planning of this operation, which took place in Caracas, involving US helicopters and special forces executing a pre-dawn assault on Maduro’s suspected hideout.

As the aircraft approached the heavily fortified location, Venezuelan military forces opened fire, resulting in one Chinook, designated as the lead aircraft for the insertion of the assault team, being hit. Despite sustaining damage, the helicopter continued its mission, and Slover, who was wounded multiple times in the leg, successfully maintained control of the aircraft. A member of the Army’s 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade, Slover has a commendable record in aviation, with numerous citations highlighting his participation in high-risk operations and his exceptional aerial accomplishments.

This story will be updated with more details.