Fair winds and blue skies.
Rest in Peace

 

Sad news

Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family ...


Mark

 

That sucks. RIP Phil, it was a pleasure to know you.

 

It was a pleasure knowing and working with Phil. He will be missed.

 

Phil Straley, great pilot, father, husband and friend.....

 

Never had the privilege of flying with him. Prayers for Capt Straley, and those he leaves behind.

 

I cannot believe it! Phil was a larger than life figure and gave me my first taste of military aviation. When I was in college, I went during the summer ROTC tour to Homestead where Phil was the the squadron commander of the 308th TFS. I was lucky enough to get 8 F-16 rides that summer and Phil was the one who took me on my first flight in a military jet. I thought about him often as I made my own way to becoming a fighter pilot. His impression on me was enormous and the fighter pilot I wanted model myself after. A real "break glass in case of war" kind of guy but, first and foremost, a truly outstanding man.

I learned of his death just a few minutes ago as I walked into the AOC from a trip and I still can't believe it. I just had a beer with him and I will raise my glass to him again. A true hero of mine.

 

Phil was a friend, mentor, and all round great guy, I am crushed by this news. Can't make it for his farewell, I know you guys will do him proud.
Thanks Phil, it was a real privilege.

 

Phil was a great guy, and one of the people that I will never forget. This is a big loss for the community.

N

 

Just got the news of his passing. That is very tragic. This has been a horrible year for our crew force. How many pilots have we lost this year? I don't know the answer, but it is way too many.