Maxwell AFB, AL - Retired Air Force Colonel Thomas

Maxwell AFB, AL - Retired Air Force Colonel Thomas E. Griffith, Jr one of the Eagles for Gathering of Eagles speaks of his experiences as a fighter pilot and prisoner of war during Desert Storm. GOE program brings together aviation heroes and pioneers to share their experiences and provide inspiration to future aviation leaders. Thie theme for GOE 2017 is Desert Storm.Col Griffith, then Maj Griffith was the weapons system operator when his F-15E Strike Eagle was shot down during the early days of Desert Storm. After a successful ejection, Griffith and his pilot Col. David Eberly evaded the Iraqi forces for two days until their capture. On 25 January 1991, CNN broadcast an Iraqi interview with Major Griffith and two others providing proof of life. Griffith was repatriated on 4 March 1991. Col Griffith retired from active duty 1 Sep 2008.(USAF Photograph by Donna L. Burnett/released)