UAL T38 Phlyer

I'm in a training squadron where the bulk of the IPs are fighter guys. The rest are mostly bomber guys; some FAIPs too.

Good dudes all, and a HUGE push, at least once month, to do all the things the "traditional" way: roll-call, penalty shots, naming ceremonies, etc. Hell, we even have piano-burnings. The last crud tourny on-base (not my squadron) resulted in a broken nose for either the Commander, or DO; I'm hazy on the details (I wasn't there, just like Tail Hook '91).

As a result, there are at least 100 pilots a year headed to the Combat Units who know the meaning of true camaraderie, friendship, and a sense of purpose and belonging in a warfighting unit. They are the nucleus of the only hope I have left for the Air Force.

Whenever a new guy shows up? "Tell us about yourself!!" The fearful look of "Should I?" Then, the inevitable:

"Sit the [expletive] down!!"

To quote from Monty Python, in regards to tradition:

"I'm not dead yet!"

e6bpilot

The tradition of "sit down *******" is still alive and well. Have no fear.
Your story was pretty funny though...I can just sense the awkwardness as you were the only one yelling at a poor coasty trying to introduce himself.

BugT56

DB, I am jealous of the plane yes, but more so the job. It's the only place in military aviation that you get a one way conversation for not flying enough, instead of not enough paperwork being created/pushed..... Plus, I agree with Phlyer, and think the mash up of cultures from all the communities and branches there fosters the camraderie and warrior traditions that are still hanging on. Unlike the fleet, there is still a big push to keep them alive at least once a month. i attribute much of that to the reservists who remember the old stuff and keep it alive. The old guys in the active fleet have to much on the line and are unwilling to risk it in this PC environment. As far is being a doer, have you put in your request with Tmac? I am sure since he is a former member of HT-2, he would hook you up.

PS- on separate note, rumor is we are in the process of finalizing the first 7 C27's. won't believe it until it is on the ramp, but there is still hope.

e6bpilot

I second that as a former Doer myself. The old guys there rule. I learned so much from them, I can't even begin to tell you...

T Mac was my XO. Great dude.