**Heroic Actions of U.S. Airmen Shine Amidst Iran's April 13 Missile Attack**

April 13 marked a night of chaos and courage as U.S. Airmen faced a retaliatory missile attack from Iran. Assigned to the 494th Fighter Squadron, Capts. Trace Sheerin, Brian Tesch, Logan Cowan, and Gabriel Diamond were preparing for their second scheduled patrol out of an undisclosed Middle Eastern base when Iran launched a significant onslaught on Israel. The night was already intense, with fellow F-15E crews previously dispatched to intercept the attack.

As the mission unfolded, ballistic missiles began targeting their base, triggering an "Alarm Red" status, indicating an immediate threat. With explosions lighting up the night sky, Capt. Tesch described the scene as reminiscent of the Fourth of July, highlighting the gravity of the situation.

Amidst the pandemonium, the first wave of F-15Es, piloted by Maj. Benjamin Coffey and Capt. Lacie Hester and Lt. Col. Curtis Culver and Lt. Col. Timothy Causey, returned after deploying all their ordnance. Incredibly, Culver and Causey's jet underwent a rapid integrated combat turn of 32 minutes, swiftly reloading and refueling mid-operation.

However, Coffey and Hester encountered issues with a "hung ordnance," necessitating a switch to another aircraft. Just as they were about to transition, the Alarm Red sounded, prompting a sprint to the bunkers. Realizing their mission was far from over, Coffey rallied support from Senior Airman Freer, who bravely volunteered to launch the next sortie. The three of them, with a few others, readied the jet amidst the alarm, showcasing immense dedication.

Meanwhile, ground crews like Staff Sgt. Kendra Wertsbaugh and Staff Sgt. Ethan Tarver played critical roles. Wertsbaugh made a pivotal decision to ready the remaining aircraft instead of seeking shelter, believing that their duty wasn't done. Tarver and his team ensured all jets were prepared, directing others to safety while they stayed on the flight line. Their courageous actions were crucial in getting the jets airborne during the missile barrage.

Capt. Cowan, Sheerin, Tesch, and Diamond faced a harrowing moment during takeoff through a corridor flanked by active air defense batteries. Sheerin, likening the experience to a drag race, expertly maneuvered the jet to safety. Simultaneously, Capt. Matthew Eddins and Capt. Garrett Benner, returning from an earlier mission, observed the intense spectacle through night vision goggles, realizing the severity of the bombardment.

Operations desk personnel, including Maj. Clayton Wicks, maintained composure under pressure, coordinating movements and making critical decisions like allowing Eddins and Benner to land despite the Alarm Red. Their landing was fraught with challenges, but they safely touched down, even under adverse conditions.

The daring efforts of these U.S. Airmen, including the bravery of maintainers like Master Sgt. Timothy Adams, who remained on the flightline under fire, exemplified outstanding heroism. The night's operation concluded with an order to conserve resources for potential future actions, but the Airmen's actions had undoubtedly made a significant impact.

The events of April 13 showcased the incredible bravery, quick decision-making, and unwavering commitment of the 494th Fighter Squadron's Airmen, ensuring they stood firm against the threat, underscoring the vital role these individuals play in global security.