Trump awards Medal of Honor to hero pilot wounded in Maduro raid at State of the Union 2026 address

In a stirring ceremony, President Trump presented the Congressional Medal of Honor to Chief Warrant Officer Eric Slover, lauding his extraordinary bravery during a military operation in Venezuela. Slover’s remarkable courage under fire earned him this prestigious accolade.

The event took place in the House chamber, where Slover, accompanied by his wife Amy, was met with a resounding standing ovation. The audience erupted into chants of “USA, USA, USA,” celebrating the heroism of the US Army helicopter pilot.


Chief Warrant Officer Eric Slover, who was wounded in the Nicolas Maduro abduction raid in Venezuela, receives the Congressional Medal of Honor during the State of the Union address in the House Chamber of the US Capitol in Washington, DC, on February 24, 2026.
Chief Warrant Officer Eric Slover received the Congressional Medal of Honor for his role in the raid to capture Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro. AFP via Getty Images

During his address, President Trump vividly recounted the harrowing events of the raid on Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro. He highlighted the critical moment when Slover, despite being wounded, displayed exemplary valor. “The entire mission’s success and the safety of his comrades depended on Eric’s ability to endure excruciating pain,” Trump stated. He marveled at Slover’s resilience, noting the severe injuries to his legs caused by gunfire, yet his determination to continue piloting and safely land the helicopter.

Stay updated with The Post’s live coverage of President Trump’s 2026 State of the Union address.


President Trump also mentioned that Slover is still on the path to recovery from the injuries he sustained in the January operation. The raid resulted in injuries to several American soldiers, underscoring the mission’s perilous nature.


He noted Slover is still recovering from his wounds. About a half dozen American soldiers were injured in the January raid.

Trump said other members of military involved in the mission would be honored at the White House at a later date.

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