US EA-18G Crash, Friend of Mine Onboard

[Kaptlt.Endrass]

About a week ago, a US Navy officer, a good friend of mine, was on a training run with the RAAF when his plane's external fuel tank exploded over the Bismarck Sea. He and the pilot were MIA for 72-96 hours before a Aussie cruiser picked them up.

As far as I know, his career is done. Had a compound fracture in his arm (still attatched, thank God) and his lower body was a mess. The pilot got helluva lucky: a piece of the plane shattered the canopy and lodged itself a less than an inch from his heart. Both are recovering stateside, and the pilot will be continuing his flying.

Just some amazing news. Ironically, when I heard the news, I'd just watched the first trailer for 'Against the Sun'. Both are taking it well (apparently every shark they met was punched in the face).

[Nippelspanner]

Wow, how incredibly lucky to survive an explosion/crash like that and a few days at sea!
Career done or not, which is bad, they are alive and have a hell of a story to tell their grandchildren, that's how I see it. :salute:

[ikalugin]

Well, you never know. There was a soviet pilot who flew with his legs missing, and flying back then was harder on your physique I would say.

[Jimbuna]

Great to know they both survived and hope the onward years are good to them healthwise :sunny:

[Kaptlt.Endrass]

Just talked to Stan (my friend) today. He says that his upcoming wedding will not be hindered by his injuries. He's sounding great and is back home after the docs fixed his arm. Told him about your support and he was glad to hear 'bout it. He says thanks to you all.