“On April 8th, 2013 I was flying an F/A-18F on a combat mission in support of coalition ground forces in Afghanistan. During the flight back to the USS EISENHOWER, the aircraft developed several compound emergencies that eventually resulted in the right engine being shutdown and the left engine flaming out.

I ejected below 1,000 feet while the aircraft was oriented outside the safe ejection envelope. I have the brilliant and hard working employees of Martin-Baker to thank for ending up safely floating in the Indian Ocean.

To everyone at Martin-Baker, from myself and my family, I offer my most heartfelt thank you for saving my life.”

Todd Cleveland, Ejectee #5947