Eric Slover

He held a shattered helicopter steady despite crippling fire

Eric A. Slover joined the United States Army in 2005 and became a Chinook helicopter pilot after warrant-officer and flight training. He later served with the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment and reached chief warrant officer five. His experience included combat aviation in Afghanistan and advanced education through Norwich University.

On 3 January 2026 he piloted an MH-47 during Operation Absolute Resolve in Caracas, Venezuela. Enemy fire struck him repeatedly as his aircraft approached its objective. Despite severe wounds, he maintained control and manoeuvred so that the aircraft's gunners could engage the threats. His actions protected his crew and the troops aboard and allowed the operation to continue.

He received the Medal of Honor on 24 February 2026 during the State of the Union proceedings, with Lieutenant General Jonathan Braga presenting the decoration. Slover attended while recovering from his injuries. His citation recognises the decision to keep flying and protect others when his wounds might otherwise have caused the loss of the aircraft.