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Iran Hostage Rescue Mission

In 1980, the US sent special forces to Iran to try to free hostages seized during the storming of the US embassy in Tehran. Witness speaks to special forces team member Mike Vining.

In April 1980, the US launched Operation Eagle Claw - a daring but ultimately disastrous attempt to free dozens of hostages held captive in the US Embassy in Tehran. The rescue mission ended in chaos almost as soon as it began. Witness speaks to Mike Vining, a member of the US special forces team.

Photo credit: US Army. Mike Vining (far right) returning from the mission.

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15 minutes

Last on

Tue 12 May 2015 09:30

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  • Tue 12 May 2015 09:30

Podcast