Air Journal

1. How and Why I Became a Military Writer

   How and Why I Became a Military Writer
   Air Facts Journal

   I was consumed with an overwhelming desire to tell the story of the men who gave so much of themselves in the Vietnam War, the most unpopular war in American history. I wrote because I wanted these men to live in more than the minds of their loved ones or their comrades, I wanted them to live in the minds of the next generation and to inspire those who are considering joining the aviation community.

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2. Don’t Get Stuck—Avoiding Breakdowns and Delays

   Don’t Get Stuck—Avoiding Breakdowns and Delays
   Air Facts Journal

   Running the battery down by leaving the battery or master switch on is, arguably, the most common reason for a departure delay.  I use a “Parking” or “Shutdown Checklist” before deplaning to avoid this.  Some pilots leave the rotating beacon on after shut down as a clue that the battery switch was left on.  Full service FBOs will have external power available to get you going quickly if the battery is dead.

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3. Another reason to fly—Young Eagles

   Another reason to fly—Young Eagles
   Air Facts Journal

   Shortly after earning my Private pilot certificate, I had a pilot friend who invited me to a local EAA chapter meeting. The group is primarily focused on aircraft building. I had no interest in building an aircraft but I was, however, very interested in taking kids for the first airplane ride.  I was then introduced to the chapter's Young Eagle flight coordinator. 

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4. Friday Photo: Sunset Over the Ozarks

   Friday Photo: Sunset Over the Ozarks
   Air Facts Journal

   Pilots in this area are so fortunate to have private strip owners who will share their beautiful landing locations. I was lucky enough to make landings at three of the available strips. There have been times when the wildlife refused to leave their grazing spots, as I’m forced to enjoy a low pass.  Still, never a bad way to spend the evening.

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5. The Fine Art of the Debrief

   The Fine Art of the Debrief
   Air Facts Journal

   Like many of you, my debrief has evolved over my flying career. Now, what I like to do is organize my thoughts into, “The Good, The Bad, and the Ugly,” or more formally, what I did well, what I thought I could do better, and what I might have done differently. And not necessarily in that order depending on how the flight went.

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