In the Navy – SNJ, T-28, SNB, T-33, A-1 all models, C-118. Most of my time was in the A-1s.

I went with an airline in 1968. The BUPERS detailer, who was an old friend of mine, told me in 1967 that my squadron days were over. I was too senior, had done two combat deployments, and had no ship’s company or desk job billets in my record. The Navy wanted its officers to be well rounded in experience. He opined that I would be flying a desk or be ship’s company for the next few years. I wanted to keep flying. (I was a stubborn sort.) So, I asked to be released from active duty (I was a Reserve.), and took a chance that an airline would hire me. It worked out. Thirty-eight years of flying fora living. One lucky guy, and very appreciative of those who didn’t make it home.

Here in Israel everybody is connected to military service, or has experienced that loss within their intimate circles. Perhaps that makes it easier for the families that have made the ultimate sacrifice.

Got a friend, we go back to Jump School in 70. He spent a lot of time in the Reserves. One of his acquaintances recently received an Arcom (Army Commendation Medal) for performing CPR on the father who passed out when seeing him at the door.

But, as I say, every waking moment is hoping against hope for no unannounced knock. Military families generally know to call each other before dropping in for something. If you happen to be driving in family quarters areas, you take off your hat.

The first time I notified, there was no doubt in her eyes. She told the little dog that Daddy wasn’t coming home. No doubt, either, among the half dozen neighbors coming up the sidewalk behind me.

Never was aboard FDR. I was always PACFLT, and she was, except for one tour, an Atlantic Fleet ship. I read her history. Too bad she never got the upgrade that Midway and Coral Sea got. FDR might be a museum today, like the 41 Maru. 🙂