Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Trump Honors Wounded Chinook Pilot From Venezuela Raid at State of the Union

The recognition followed his role flying a damaged lead Chinook under fire in the Caracas operation.

U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer Eric Slover receives a Medal of Honor during President Donald Trump's State of the Union address to a joint session of Congress in the House chamber at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
First lady Melania Trump presents the Congressional Medal of Honor to World War II Navy pilot Capt. Royce Williams as President Donald Trump delivers the State of the Union address to a joint session of Congress in the House chamber at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
First lady Melania Trump applauds after presenting the Congressional Medal of Honor to World War II Navy Pilot Capt. Royce Williams during President Donald Trump's State of the Union address to a joint session of Congress in the House chamber at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026.(AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer Eric Slover receives a Medal of Honor during President Donald Trump's State of the Union address to a joint session of Congress in the House chamber at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Overview

  • President Trump recognized Chief Warrant Officer Eric Slover in the House chamber and presented a major medal, with outlets differing on whether it was the Medal of Honor or the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
  • Trump recounted that Slover was shot multiple times in the leg yet maintained control of the lead Chinook to complete the assault team’s insertion in Caracas.
  • Reports identify Slover as a Chinook pilot with the U.S. Army’s 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade.
  • Slover attended with his wife, Amy, received a standing ovation, and is still recovering; roughly half a dozen U.S. service members were injured in the January raid.
  • Trump said other service members involved in the mission will be honored at the White House at a later date.