Aside from "Rule," they sometimes do reunions.
After 37 years, finally, a real 1st reunion for us.
Some have remained close friends, some see each other occasionally, and some haven't seen each other for nearly four decades. But all share a very rare and special bond – inclusive of all - the later Admiral, Skippers, and the forever JOs - especially everyone having been in harm's way, together.
I am told that old farts at reunions suddenly revert to their former younger and outrageous selves, leaving their wives and other ignorant and unknowing guests shaking their heads incredulously at this previously unknown and bizarre to them, behavior. That others do not know, is only because, "you had to have been there...." Had they been, they easily could jump into the instantly renewed revelry.
I'm looking forward to seeing some extraordinary guys I haven't seen in decades next week – a few former POWs, one subsequent Flag Officer, guys that bailed out of the Nav early, and guys with some amazing experiences and stories (actually, everybody had some amazing stories ) ... all served proudly and fought courageously, and we all share a lot of history and memories. We will also honor and remember 10 VF-151 Vigilantes who are no longer with us.
So if you see a motley crew of limping ancient mariners and former fighter crews at MCAS Miramar next Friday the 27th, or aboard our old home, the USS Midway on Saturday, smile, wave, and say "hi".
We all share an elite and proud profession. I hope many of you all will enjoy your squadron reunion in 2050, as we will next week.
Linky
After 37 years, finally, a real 1st reunion for us.
Some have remained close friends, some see each other occasionally, and some haven't seen each other for nearly four decades. But all share a very rare and special bond – inclusive of all - the later Admiral, Skippers, and the forever JOs - especially everyone having been in harm's way, together.
I am told that old farts at reunions suddenly revert to their former younger and outrageous selves, leaving their wives and other ignorant and unknowing guests shaking their heads incredulously at this previously unknown and bizarre to them, behavior. That others do not know, is only because, "you had to have been there...." Had they been, they easily could jump into the instantly renewed revelry.
I'm looking forward to seeing some extraordinary guys I haven't seen in decades next week – a few former POWs, one subsequent Flag Officer, guys that bailed out of the Nav early, and guys with some amazing experiences and stories (actually, everybody had some amazing stories ) ... all served proudly and fought courageously, and we all share a lot of history and memories. We will also honor and remember 10 VF-151 Vigilantes who are no longer with us.
So if you see a motley crew of limping ancient mariners and former fighter crews at MCAS Miramar next Friday the 27th, or aboard our old home, the USS Midway on Saturday, smile, wave, and say "hi".
We all share an elite and proud profession. I hope many of you all will enjoy your squadron reunion in 2050, as we will next week.
Linky