It was a heck of a story of real heroes totally ruined by Hollywood when they made the movie. Just telling it without all the “artistic license” would have been better. A good review of the whole operation is “The Rescue of Bat 21” by Colonel (Ret) Darrel Whitcomb who flew as a Nail FAC during the search. Darrel was also on Capt Steve Bennett’s wing when he went into the water saving his back seater’s life rather than saving himself. That action earned him a MOH postumously.
We thank you for your service to our country. (Air Force I think.)