smokyray
Well Known Member
As a Veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom I have had mixed emotions over recent events leading to the return of US troops. Having spent over 20 years of my life flying a very cool airplane most people only dream of in very austere circumstances, many of which took place over Iraq I still feel blessed. Even after the loss of life I witnessed, the damage I helped inflict, and hurt of those around me, I am still thankful. Why?
Most US citizens when reading the news responded "I-where?" When most people hear of my service I invaribly get the question "was it worth it?" or "do you think we accomplished anything?". To both questions I answer yes. Serving is something some people do naturally, as part of their very existence. Those who do feel a kinship with those around them doing the same. It is a motivating factor for others among them to witness and desire to emulate their behavior. In the 20 years since the first hostilities in Iraq, less than one tenth of one percent of US citizens have served there. The ones that have know each other in a crowd, sometimes by a article of clothing, backpack or even how they carry themselves. Many carry scars and pain that will never heal, myself included. Most of us can't go 5 minutes without a painful memory rearing it's ugly head. This goes for anyone who has served in combat throughout history. The kinship and love for those who served alongside me is the "why".The very act of service before self makes one justifiably proud or close to fellow service members. What's my point?
Giving back.
While serving our Fly-4-Life feature at Oshkosh 2009 I met the president of the Veteran's Airlift Command who is part of our F4L Public Benefit charitable organization membership. Their members give back by flying Veteran's to various destinations based on need. These veterans may have a debilitating injury (physical or mental), lack of funds or even capability to travel. VAC pairs pilots and airplanes to transport them to where they need to go, quietly, humbly and safely. It is completely tax deductible as a 501-C3 and a great, great experience. Their website asks that pilots be Instrument rated, the aircraft be a multi-engine or high performance single, standard airworthiness certificate. That requirement however is changing as we speak.
What can you or I do? Get involved, volunteer! Help organize a flight for a Vet you know. You, as a Pilot and aircraft could help make someone's little world better by a simple act. The most valuable thing you can give is your time. The good news? You get to fly, chat with a real Vet, see somewhere new and be part of something really cool.
A win-win in my book.
http://www.veteransairlift.org/
Thanks!
Smokey
Most US citizens when reading the news responded "I-where?" When most people hear of my service I invaribly get the question "was it worth it?" or "do you think we accomplished anything?". To both questions I answer yes. Serving is something some people do naturally, as part of their very existence. Those who do feel a kinship with those around them doing the same. It is a motivating factor for others among them to witness and desire to emulate their behavior. In the 20 years since the first hostilities in Iraq, less than one tenth of one percent of US citizens have served there. The ones that have know each other in a crowd, sometimes by a article of clothing, backpack or even how they carry themselves. Many carry scars and pain that will never heal, myself included. Most of us can't go 5 minutes without a painful memory rearing it's ugly head. This goes for anyone who has served in combat throughout history. The kinship and love for those who served alongside me is the "why".The very act of service before self makes one justifiably proud or close to fellow service members. What's my point?
Giving back.
While serving our Fly-4-Life feature at Oshkosh 2009 I met the president of the Veteran's Airlift Command who is part of our F4L Public Benefit charitable organization membership. Their members give back by flying Veteran's to various destinations based on need. These veterans may have a debilitating injury (physical or mental), lack of funds or even capability to travel. VAC pairs pilots and airplanes to transport them to where they need to go, quietly, humbly and safely. It is completely tax deductible as a 501-C3 and a great, great experience. Their website asks that pilots be Instrument rated, the aircraft be a multi-engine or high performance single, standard airworthiness certificate. That requirement however is changing as we speak.
What can you or I do? Get involved, volunteer! Help organize a flight for a Vet you know. You, as a Pilot and aircraft could help make someone's little world better by a simple act. The most valuable thing you can give is your time. The good news? You get to fly, chat with a real Vet, see somewhere new and be part of something really cool.
A win-win in my book.
http://www.veteransairlift.org/
Thanks!
Smokey
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