Newly declassified videos have revealed the daring rescues of two U.S. Air Force officers after their fighter jet was shot down in Iran. Identified by their mission call signs, ‘Alpha’ and ‘Bravo,’ these officers landed approximately five miles apart in a mountainous area south of Isfahan.

The first rescue mission took place eight hours after Alpha ejected from the jet. The U.S. dispatched 21 aircraft for the operation, despite the high risk of a daytime mission behind enemy lines. ‘Anytime you go behind enemy lines in daylight, it’s gonna be dicey,’ stated Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Yet, the decision was made to act swiftly to ensure Alpha’s safety.

Another declassified video, captured on an infrared feed, showed the rescue of Bravo two days later. Two elite U.S. Air Force pararescuers reached Bravo and successfully evacuated him to an American helicopter. Despite sustaining severe injuries, including a broken back, Bravo had climbed a 7,000-foot ridgeline to signal for help. He described seeing his rescuers as one of the greatest moments of his life. When they reached him, his quick response was, ‘Let’s go.’

This coverage was produced by Jane Greeley and Kaela Malig, with Scott Rosann handling the editing.