Monday, March 29th, 1999.

About the pilot of the shot down F-117A 

    Q: I am interested in one thing especially: if this invisible plane was shot down somewhere around Ruma, how come the pilot has been saved so quickly that he is already in Italy. Something in there just doesn't add up well.

    A: As far back as Vietnam the Americans have started developing mechanisms for finding and prompt rescue of pilots from shot down aircraft. Today, it works in the following way: every aircraft crew member carries a radio-wave transmitter which shows his exact location in case he is downed. Every combat action is supported by rescue teams, flying in helicopters outside YU borders, which will engage in pilot rescue if necessary. This rescue is not a mere landing of the helicopter which the unhappy pilot can simply jump in, it includes the back - up forces and immediate air support. The combat rescue teams are a part of the special forces, and are one of the best trained branches in the US army - which is not surprising if you keep in mind that they have to engage in an operation deep within the enemy borders, and that they operate in small groups. Along with the units within SFOR forces (when it comes to these things, the Americans pay little heed to the international law), these teams are stationed in Macedonia, and the 24. MEU(SOC) - USMC Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), which counts around 2000 men and is trained in such operations, is stationed aboard the USS Nassau in the Ionic sea. This unit is, for example, responsible for the rescue of major O'Grady after his F-16 was shut down by VRS over Bosnia in 1995. So, should you spot a Negro with a pilot helmet, you should think twice before you kindly ask him to surrender - perhaps a dozen marines is just about to drop down on your head.

Bojan,
student