MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Eugene Hasenfus, known for his crucial role in uncovering the Iran-Contra affair after his CIA-backed supply plane was shot down in 1986, has sadly passed away.
Hasenfus died on Nov. 26 in Menominee, Michigan, following a nine-year battle with cancer at the age of 84. His obituary was shared by the Hansen-Onion-Martell Funeral Home in Marinette, Wisconsin.
Born on January 22, 1941, in Marinette, Hasenfus served in the Marine Corps during the Vietnam War before embarking on a private aviation career. He became a prominent figure in the Cold War’s Iran-Contra scandal during the mid-1980s.
In 1981, following a congressional ban on military aid to Nicaraguan Contras, President Reagan's administration authorized the CIA to support these anti-communist forces in their fight against the Sandinista government. The administration oversaw clandestine operations aimed at delivering arms to the Contras until Congress could reconsider funding.
The operation fell into disarray after Hasenfus's plane was shot down in October 1986. While three crew members died, Hasenfus managed to parachute into the jungle and escape for over 24 hours before being caught by the Nicaraguan government and charged with terrorism.
After initially lying about the U.S. involvement, Reagan's administration faced scrutiny, prompting Congress to initiate an investigation. Hasenfus was convicted in Nicaragua and sentenced to 30 years in prison, but was pardoned a month later by President Daniel Ortega, allowing him to return home to Wisconsin.
Later, Hasenfus attempted to file a lawsuit for damages related to the arms deals but was unsuccessful. His life took a turn in 2003 when he faced legal troubles again. He is survived by four children and eight grandchildren.
