Pedro 66

Tags: war, history, afghanistan

PEDRO 66
6/9/2010 - Air Force Combat Search and Rescue call sign Pedro 66 and Pedro
67 launched from Bastion AAF in southern Afghanistan on their 3rd alert
scramble of the day. Pedro 66/67 arrived on scene to recover the critically
injured British Marine. The two Black Hawks immediately came under enemy
fire resulting in a critically damaged tail rotor on Pedro 66. Still
airborne, the crew of Pedro 66 attempted to fly the hobbled bird away from
ground forces to ensure no other Marines would be injured. After clearing
the LZ and civilian houses, the aircraft became uncontrollable and Pedro 66
crashed. Pedro 67 was able to save 3 Airmen immediately along with the
injured Marine. Tragically, 4 Airmen perished that day: 1st LT Joel Gentz,
and SSgt David Smith from the 58th and 66th Rescue Squadrons at Nellis AFB,
NV and TSgt Michael Flores, and Senior Airman Benjamin White from the 48th
Rescue Squadron Davis-Monthan AFB, Arizona. Capt. David A. Wisniewski
(Aircraft Commander) also from the 66th RQS at Nellis would never wake from
his coma and died 23 days later. 2 survivors Capt. Anthony Simone and MSgt
Christopher Aguilera are still in recovery. Capt. Simone is with family and
friends in Chicago, Illinois but will never be the same due to his injuries.
He continues his brave recovery and is active in archery and sports. MSgt
Aguilera is continuing to get better, earned his way back to flying status
and is currently participating in the Wounded Warrior Olympic Team.