Operation Red Wings was a U.S. military mission in Afghanistan’s Kunar Province from late June to mid-July 2005, aiming to disrupt Taliban-aligned insurgents led by Ahmad Shah. A four-member Navy SEAL reconnaissance team was deployed to locate Shah but was ambushed, resulting in three fatalities. A quick reaction force’s MH-47 Chinook helicopter was then shot down by insurgents, killing all 16 U.S. personnel aboard. The sole survivor, Petty Officer Marcus Luttrell, was later rescued. This operation marked one of the deadliest days for U.S. Special Operations Forces in Afghanistan.

Learn More:

• Marcus Luttrell: Wikipedia Entry
• Operation Red Wings: Lt. Michael P. Murphy Navy SEAL Museum
• Operation Red Wings: Wikipedia Entry
• SEAL Team 6 Operator Remembers Red Wings: Shawn Ryan Clips

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