What a Fourth of July story! -

"Western New York Pilot Rescued In Iraq", WGRZ, 7/5/07:

Warrant Officer Second Steven Cianfrini and copilot Mark Burrows were shot down by insurgents about 30 miles south of Baghdad, in the area that has come to be known as the "Triangle of Death."

They survived a crash landing in which the helicopter flipped over. Still under fire, Cianfrini and Burrows ran for a nearby canal, and submerged themselves up to their mouths.

Cianfrini had only been in Iraq for two months when this happened. He still has 13 months to go in his tour of duty, according to his father, who said the United States should re-evaluate the mission in Iraq, though he supports the troops.

Steven detailed all of the dramatic events through text messages to his father, Oakfield Mayor and attorney Ray Cianfrini [who] shared the entire text of their initial conversation, which you can read below.

Dad says;
How bad was it?

Steve says;
I have to tell you... we should be dead... we were engaged four times... 3 out of 4 times was heavy machine gun on my side of aircraft I was the only one to see it cuz other pilot was flying.

Dad says;
The good Lord is looking after you. Say an extra prayer tonight. ... You were blessed on this one, Steve.

Steve says;
I know... some higher being was looking over us.

Dad says;
Say an extra prayer tonight. We love you. STAY SAFE! Wait to hear from you again.

HT: David George and Alumni Web Site