Quote:
Originally Posted by Capt. Carrera
Wow... This thread took a twist....
Let’s try this instead.
How about I tell y'all just a touch about the ol' man. - Grew up in Philly.
- Had a new car every year during the depression.
- Did basic flight training in '43. (Coincidently it was in Camden, SC. The field is about a mile from my house.)
- Soloed out of an airfield that is now the CMP racetrack.
- His aviation career spanned biplanes to supersonic jets. ("You determine the landing speed of a PT-17 by listening to the wires between the wings.")
- He flew combat in three wars. (WWII, Korea, and 'Nam.)
- Awarded the Silver Star, Distinguished Flying Cross, and many other honors.
- Piloted airplanes his entire 30 year career in the service.
- Favorite car owned? I suspect it would be the ’67 TR4A he bought after returning from 'Nam. He tweaked the heck out of that car. I remember it quite well.
Here's a photo of him 40 years ago. In the photo he's younger than I am now. And had already done so much....
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Too cool! Congrats to your dad on getting his Cayman; great choice for a River Rat.
Have to admit, the first thing I was curious about was what he flew. Thuds!!! Loved watching them when I used to fly into Takhli, and the sound when they were in afterburner was unforgettable. They flew tough missions in a tough environment. Silver Stars aren't just given away - they get earned the hard way. You should be very, very proud.
Please give him my thanks.
Now you need to tell us what else he flew. Report back.