Two Canadian F/A-18's over Iraq were returning to base after a successful bombing run near the Iran border.
Thats when it happened. One of the fighters lost all power in the cockpit and the engines were winding down. He quickly explained the situation to his wingman.
He tried to bail out but wouldn't you know it that was broke too. The pilot decided all he could do is ride it down. His wingman notified him of a road ahead and followed him downward with gun ready in case any insurgents made themselves known.
The impact was hard as the jet sunk into the soft muddy ground but the pilot was alive!
The wingman quickly radioed the location and a rescue chopper was pulled out of the hanger and made ready back in Baghdad.
Enemy was nearby and the pilot had to flee and evade for what seemed like a eternity. The rescue helo crew was about to go for a refuel as they just could not locate the downed pilot.
Thats when the side gunner saw the pilot running out from a grove of trees and shouted and pointed with excitement as they had found their man.
The pilot quickly jumped in as the gunners laid down cover fire into the brush.
The Canadian just didn't feel safe till he saw friendly territory under his feet.
