Eric A. Slover

Branch

U.S. Army

Era

Since 1975

Action

Eric A. Slover, January 3, 2026

The citation

Official citation

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty: Chief Warrant Officer Five Eric A. Slover distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity, above and beyond the call of duty on January 3, 2026, during a mission in Venezuela, in support of Operation Absolute Resolve. Chief Warrant Officer Five Slover piloted his MH-47 as the lead aircraft of the operation, tasked with executing a highly complex infiltration through hostile Integrated Air Defense Systems to safely deliver military forces. During ingress, Chief Warrant Officer Five Slover skillfully led the helicopter force through a dense jungle valley in a mountainous region, navigating marginal weather conditions, numerous topographical hazards, and near-insurmountable surface to air threats. Upon touching down at the designated landing zone, Chief Warrant Officer Five Slover's aircraft was immediately engaged by multiple machine gun positions at close range. The hostile fire resulted in 15 armor-piercing rounds entering his cockpit, with four rounds striking his left leg. Despite the intense and effective enemy fire, and at great personal risk, Chief Warrant Officer Five Slover maintained his situational awareness and aircraft's position in the line of fire to ensure the safe infiltration of the military forces. After the force disembarked, and despite suffering significant life-threatening injuries. Chief Warrant Officer Five Slover identified hostile heavy machine gun positions that were engaging his aircraft and targeting the ground forces. He maneuvered his aircraft to enable his door gunner to deliver effective fire, successfully neutralizing the threats. Chief Warrant Officer Five Slover's heroic actions undoubtedly saved countless American lives and ensured the complete and overwhelming success of the mission. His gallantry under fire and extraordinary valor are in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army. [AHRC–PDP–A] } GO 2026–18 2 DISTRIBUTION: This publication is available in electronic media only and is intended for the Regular Army, Army National Guard/Army National Guard of the United States, and U.S. Army Reserve.

Sources

• U.S. Army General Orders, AGO 2026-18
• https://armypubs.army.mil/ProductMaps/PubForm/Details.aspx?PUB_ID=1033663
• Wikipedia. Linked only. The article text is not copied here.