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Updated: 05/07/2012 8:03 am CBS News

Two elite Air Force pilots are seeking protection under the federal whistleblower law for revealing safety
problems on the F-22 Raptor, and refusing to fly until those issues are resolved. On Sunday night, Maj. Jeremy
Gordon and Capt. Josh Wilson risked their careers by appearing on CBS news program "60 Minutes," in
uniform and without permission to discuss the stealth fighter's flaw.

Both pilots, who flew combat missions in the Iraq War, said they love flying the $400 million jets. But a faulty
oxygen system that is suffocating the pilots and causing blackouts is making them fear for their lives and for the
lives of people on the ground. Many other F-22 pilots have experienced disorientation, difficulty breathing and
forgetfulness in the stealth fighters as well as a cough that follows them even after they land.

This dangerous safety issue may have even claimed a pilot's life. In 2010, Capt. Jeffrey Haney died when his F-22
crashed in Alaska. Although evidence showed Haney had blacked out just prior to hitting the ground, the incident
was attributed to pilot error.

Despite the known safety issues, F-22 pilots have been ordered to continue flying. In fact, the Air Force is now
threatening pilots with disciplinary action if they refuse to fly for safety reasons.

Watch the short version of 60 Minutes:- http://sammyboy.com/showthread.php?1...98#post1061898