On February 24, 2026, President Donald Trump presented Chief Warrant Officer Five Eric Slover with the Medal of Honor during his State of the Union address. Slover, 45, was recognized for his extraordinary heroism during Operation Absolute Resolve, the raid that led to the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro on January 3, 2026.
Pilot Leader of the Incursion
Slover, a helicopter pilot with the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (known as the Night Stalkers), led the aerial infiltration, navigating a mountainous valley and facing threats from the ground. Even as landing at Fort Tiuna, a heavily guarded military complex, his MH-47 Chinook helicopter was hit by 15 bullets, four of which wounded his leg and hip.
Despite sustaining serious injuries and experiencing significant blood loss, Slover maintained control of the aircraft, enabling the Delta Force operators to disembark and complete their mission. He also maneuvered the helicopter to allow its gunners to suppress enemy machine-gun fire. According to President Trump, Slover absorbed four agonizing shots that shattered his leg into numerous pieces, yet continued to fly.
Specialized in Piloting Chinook
Slover, originally from North Carolina, enlisted in August 2005 and specialized as a Chinook helicopter pilot. His CW5 rank is uncommon within the U.S. Army, earning those who achieve it the nickname “unicorn.” This designation is reserved for individuals demonstrating exceptional technical leadership and expertise.
Decorated in Afghanistan
Prior to Operation Absolute Resolve, Slover was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his actions in southern Afghanistan, where the Chinook he was co-piloting during a medical evacuation was struck by a rocket-propelled grenade that did not detonate.
The operation to capture Maduro involved over 150 aircraft launching from 20 bases, following months of planning by agencies like the CIA, which studied the movements of the Venezuelan leader. According to U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, 44 missiles were launched from various locations in the Caribbean three minutes before the helicopters landed, simultaneously striking 44 different targets.
Frequently Asked Questions
What role did Eric Slover play in the capture of Nicolás Maduro?
Eric Slover piloted the lead helicopter during Operation Absolute Resolve, successfully infiltrating a heavily fortified compound in Caracas to deliver a Delta Force assault team. He continued to fly the aircraft despite sustaining serious injuries.
What is the significance of Slover’s rank?
Slover’s rank of CW5 is the highest rank for technical warrant officers in the U.S. Army and is rarely achieved, signifying exceptional skill and experience.
Where did Slover previously demonstrate valor?
Slover was previously awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his actions during a medical evacuation in Afghanistan, where his helicopter was struck by a rocket-propelled grenade.
Given the risks inherent in covert operations, what measures might the U.S. Military take to protect personnel involved in future missions?
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