My dad served in the Army Air Corps during WWII and then in the USAF. Perhaps aviation has always been in my blood (DNA?), but I took the first active step toward being a pilot during my sophomore year in college. I tested for the Air Force ROTC program and scored high enough to qualify for flight training. I got my Private Pilot’s license the next year.
Upon graduation from college I was commissioned a 2nd Lt in the USAF and headed for 53 weeks of flight school at Laughlin AFB, TX. I flew T-41s, T-37s and T-38s. It was a fabulous year. Upon graduation I was assigned as a copilot in the KC-135A air refueling tanker. I even flew the SAC Airborne Command Post (Looking Glass).
I have flown a hot air balloon (not for the USAF, however) in a number of rallies. the most exciting was being part of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. Being one of 400 balloons launching in a mass ascension is something not to be missed.
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