This a great great article and hits the spirit of Aviation and the men and women who strap on a plane and live out on the edge. I as many made a comment to the post and wanted to include the comment I made on this essay. [www.ejectejecteject.com]
My Coment:
“Great write up I have been flying for 20 years and I have served in the Military with pride.
I have also experienced many of the things you write about. Buddies of mine have gotten killed when the auger one in, or from planes that have come apart on them.
I have walked away from a bird with my shipmates and went straight to the bar because of almost becoming a statistic that day. After 8000 flight hours and 20yrs of service I have had more than one close calls.
The shuttle crew knew the risk and were true professionals in every sense of the word. God Bless them and there families. Unlike the trade tower survivors whose some families received millions, the military will be pay the designated recipient 250,000 dollars and they will receive a flag folded in honor of there sacrifice. The burial expenses will barely be covered and the wife will receive a monthly stipend check so long as she never re-marries. The kids will get Survivors Social Security till there 18 and will have some benefits to insure they get a college education.
The price for freedom and doing what we do out there on the edge is what makes America great. The only thing we can do now is salute the fallen hero’s and get back on the horse and do it again.
For the military personeel who stick there necks out on the line every day America should honor those that perish the same way they have honored Columbia Crew.”
I also agree…I myself am in the USAF and I’m proud to serve. I respect those who have faught for my country…hence why I’m serving my country. They gave their life and I’m willing to do the same to accomplish the mission. Although I may not carry a gun…my job is critical to keep aircraft in the air fighting and delivering care packages. I just want everyone to know that I’m proud to serve my country….think about this…..It’s kind of ironic i sacrifice my freedoms to fight for your freedom. Think about that when you talk bad about the military….appreciate those who have died for your right to speak and have those freedoms. Thank you!