First and foremost, the amazing people you get to work with and around, every day.

The first trap on the boat, like losing your virginity and your first car accident at the same time, you're not really sure what happened in either case

Taking a cat shot at dawn into a rising sun

Thanking God you just survived another night trap on a moonless night with a pitching deck (after sitting in marshal wondering why you're doing this)

Far away port calls with some of your best friends

Hearing thanks from the guys on the ground

Specifically remember tanking off a British VC-10 in northern Iraq, on NVG's under a partial moon at 1am thinking "wow."

Ripping off a sht hot break behind the boat (sorry Xhooker, real pilots break prior to the round down!!!) and flying a sweet crester all the way to the wires (or a fly through down to the ace, either are memorable)

Airshows and talking to kids

Flyovers for major sporting events and getting the rock star treatment

Having your brother in-law (who is a millionare) say he would trade places in a second with you

Did I mention the great Americans you get to work with?