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Deployed Life Through The Cockpit Glass

by Maj. "Crusier"
8th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron

OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM -- The President's speech Monday night placed us even closer to the use of our combat skills and equipment in battle. But as we stand trained and ready to execute the decisions of our President, most of our thoughts are focused on our loved ones at home. It is our support infrastructure that we left behind that gives us the confidence and the moral strength to carry out our duties and hurry home in return.

The night we deployed our aircraft, all of us were overwhelmed by those who were there to see us off. The support from our sister squadron was unparalleled. As their entire squadron and their maintenance counterpart worked 24 hours a day for three straight days to provide us with the best F-117s to take into the impending battle, we were able to focus our thoughts on our families and loved ones in preparation for our call to duty.

As both my crew chiefs helped me strap into their aircraft as I prepare to take it to war, Airman 1st Class Thomas Cook wished me "Good luck, sir" and Staff Sgt. Paul Wyatt said "Be safe, sir and hurry back. Now go make history." Their comments and actions conveyed their pride in what they do. And I was just as proud of them.

As we prepared for taxi, the final voice we heard was from the 9th FS commander, Lt. Col. Dave Wooden, wishing us from all his troops "Happy hunting and God speed!" Those were some powerful words from our brothers who want to be right there with us.

My first sight as I taxied out of the hangar was that of an entire row of 9th Aircraft Maintenance Unit troops lined up in formation along the canyon taxiway. As I taxied by, they all saluted in unison and beamed with pride. And the highest rank I saw out there was a staff sergeant. I taxied by knowing I was sitting in the best product they had to offer. Our launch that night was first class.

Further down the canyon, our spouses and families lined the left side of the taxiway. Amidst the group of proud waves and blowing kisses, all of us focused on those who mean the most to us. Intently searching to make that one last eye contact that would have to last each of us for months. Emotions ran high on both sides of the cockpit glass.

The next salute was from a "Patton-esque" Col. Jim Hunt, standing all alone at attention in front of his staff car. As we left the lit canyon area, his long proud unwavering salute sent us off to battle as if to say "Do well men, and return home safe."

Rounding the corner to the runway, we taxied by Col. Rich Treadway and Col. Andrew Papp and their wives. Both saluted with almost a fatherly look that conveyed the message of "go forth and do what you are trained to do" mixed with a look of "I would do anything to be there with you." The four of them followed us to the runway, where Col. Treadway spoke to each pilot individually through the headset, personally launching us on our journey.

As we took the runway and blasted off into the night, I saw the flash of the cameras and felt the weight of the stares of all the friends and families gathered there to see us off into the darkness. I could sense our loved one's thoughts and prayers as we disappeared from sight. It is those thoughts and prayers that I ask from all of you now.

More formidable than the enemy is a country divided in the support of their troops. As we undertake the challenge unfolding in front of us, I ask each of you to rally in support of America's deployed sons and daughters in the field. It is our intent to do whatever we are tasked to do and return home safely. See you soon.