So There I Was

John Steinbeck’s Ecstacy Leak Episode 197 Feb 05, 2026

In 1967, legendary author John Steinbeck climbed into a Huey helicopter over Vietnam—and what he wrote afterward was so raw, so strange, and so brutally honest that it still messes with pilots and historians today. This episode dives into the Vietnam War helicopter experience through Steinbeck’s eyes: the sound, the fear, the weird calm, and the “ecstasy” of combat aviation that only those who’ve strapped into a military aircraft truly understand.

We unpack what happens when a world-class writer meets rotary-wing warfare head-on, why Huey pilots in Vietnam lived on a knife edge between poetry and panic, and how Steinbeck captured the psychology of flight, risk, and survival better than most official war histories ever did. It’s part aviation storytelling, part Vietnam War history, and part “what did I just read?”—told the only way pilots can: with irreverence, curiosity, and a healthy respect for anyone who willingly steps into a machine designed to hover over a jungle full of people shooting at it.

If you’ve ever wondered what flying a Huey in Vietnam felt like, how war correspondents experienced combat aviation, or why pilots sometimes describe danger in oddly beautiful terms… buckle up. This one’s a ride.From Vietnam War Huey helicopter missions to pilot safety, ATC coordination, and the strange psychology of combat aviation storytelling, this episode explores how flying in war changes everyone who touches the sky.

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#VietnamWar #HueyHelicopter #MilitaryAviation #VietnamWarHistory #HelicopterPilot #CombatAviation #WarStories #AviationPodcast #PilotStories #JohnSteinbeck #VietnamHelicopter #AviationHistory #TrueWarStories #USMilitaryHistory #SoThereIWasPodcast

**The Beginning of My Crime Spree Episode 196** Jan 29, 2026
**The Beginning of My Crime Spree** sounds like a joke—until Captain Mike “Masher” McGrath explains how survival inside the Hanoi Hilton sometimes meant quietly breaking the rules.

In this episode of *So There I Was*, Masher, a retired US Navy A-4 Skyhawk and A-7 Corsair pilot, recounts flying 179 combat missions over Vietnam before being shot down in 1967 and spending nearly six years as a Prisoner of War in Hanoi. He shares firsthand stories of resistance, resilience, and the subtle “crimes” POWs committed to survive captivity—communicating in secret, organizing under pressure, and refusing to break.

Told with dry humor, clarity, and perspective earned the hard way, this conversation offers an unfiltered look at life as a POW during the Vietnam War and how human will, discipline, and leadership endured under brutal conditions. Masher also discusses how he later documented these experiences through stark artwork and his book *Prisoner of War—Six Years in Hanoi*.

This is not history from a textbook—it’s lived experience, told straight.

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#VietnamWar

#POW

#HanoiHilton

#NavalAviation

#MilitaryHistory

#AviationPodcast

#SoThereIWas

#CombatStories

#WarStories

#USNavy

#A4Skyhawk

#A7Corsair

#Leadership

#Resilience

#TrueStories

Drop & Give Me 1 Episode 195 Jan 22, 2026

So there I was… five miles from the runway at Stansted, flaps moving from 35 to 50 on an MD-11, when the airplane abruptly rolled to nearly 60 degrees of bank on short final. That’s not a metaphor. That actually happened.

In this episode of So There I Was, Fig and RePete sit down with Chubbs, a Guard fighter pilot turned FedEx check airman, for a master-class in aviation storytelling, decision-making, and pure “how did we survive that?” moments. From a flap literally departing the aircraft and landing between cars at a pub, to CRM failures so bad they ended careers, to Guard shenanigans involving stolen cars, helicopters, and a flattened Crown Vic — this one covers it all.

Along the way, we dive into MD-11 systems quirks, high-stakes line checks, cargo ops into combat zones, fatigue, judgment calls on short final, and why sometimes the smartest move is to undo the last thing you did and land the airplane. Equal parts hilarious, terrifying, and educational — exactly how aviation stories should be told.

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#AirlinePilotLifestyle #WhatIsIOEForPilots #AviationHumor

Pushing Tin Episode 194 Jan 15, 2026

In this episode of So There I Was, Fig and RePete are joined by Kemo and they sit down with two air traffic controllers to talk about what pilots never see — and rarely understand — on the other side of the mic. From go-arounds that mean “you’re not trying hard enough,” to near-miss moments that make an entire tower pucker, this conversation pulls back the curtain on how airspace actually gets managed.

Along the way, we dig into controller training timelines that rival military pipelines, staffing shortages that stretch patience and margins, and what it’s like working a shutdown while still moving metal safely. Then things go sideways — canceled takeoffs for iguanas on the runway, Brasher warnings explained, and stories that absolutely did not make it into the AIM.

It’s equal parts aviation reality check, dark humor, and behind-the-scenes storytelling — and once you hear it, you’ll never hear ATC the same way again.

This episode dives into air traffic control stories, control tower moments, pilot experiences,
aviation storytelling, flight safety discussions, and behind-the-scenes ATC perspectives.

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#AirTrafficControl #AviationPodcast #SoThereIWas

Ready, Sleep, Now Episode 193 Jan 09, 2026

New Year’s Eve, no guest, and somehow the cockpit still turns into a full-blown sitcom. Fig & RePete kick off with a takeoff that goes sideways at V1 when “rotate” gets called… and apparently translated into “stare blankly into the void.” From there, it’s the perfect hangout episode: Top Gun continuity crimes (medals disappear, sunglasses teleport), a hard pivot into the Air India 787 post-rotation dual-engine power-loss mystery (and why one explanation feels disturbingly too plausible), and a buffet of leadership horror stories that’ll make you grateful for every normal human you’ve ever flown with.

Plus: quiet professionals, jumpseat survival tactics, and one legendary “turn the checklist 90 degrees” power move that ends exactly how it should. Funny, sharp, and just unhinged enough to feel like the crew room after midnight.

**That's All She's Got Episode 192** Jan 01, 2026
This week’s So There I Was episode is a Hangout — that happens when you put pilots, controllers, and a few proud troublemakers in the same virtual room and hit “record.” We swap the kind of stories that never fit in a checklist: a Harrier night recovery that ended six inches from a very bad day, a Learjet that missed an airliner by 100 feet in IMC, and a “UFO” sighting that turned out to be Starlink doing accidental aerobatics in the sun’s glare.

Then Heater drops in and casually explains how *Top Gun* almost became a dark vampire movie (until someone showed the director what blue sky actually looks like). Add laser-strike rage, EMAS explained for non-pilots, and the annual reminder that the Marines were the in-flight entertainment.

Happy New Year—check six, and don’t touch the igniter wiring.

Sticks

Heater

Scotty

Bag O

Pawel

Dizzy

Porky

Fig

RePete

**Just Trying to Keep This from Becoming a Musical Episode 191** Dec 26, 2025
This is what happens when you put a Navy Tomcat legend behind a camera and let him tell the story his way. Heater takes us from KC-135 tanker ops with that infamous hard hose, to the kind of “how’d-you-do-that?” plug where he’s steady on the basket and still managing to grab photos mid-refuel. Then we pivot into Top Gun lore from someone who was actually there: the “Star Wars on Earth” in more ways than one; the image that helped ignite the franchise; two days of filming “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’,” and the blink-and-you’ll-miss-it mystery of a possible Darth Vader lurking in the background of the bar scene. Along the way, Heater breaks down what aviation photography really takes: planning, timing, composition, and the occasional blind shot that somehow becomes iconic. And years later, he’s still uncovering gems in old slide boxes that prove the best pictures sometimes outlive the moment by decades. Long-form, hilarious, and packed with aviation history and insider detail.

F-14 on the Fantail

Heater Paint Scheme

**Just Trying to Keep This from Becoming a Musical Episode 191** Dec 26, 2025
This is what happens when you put a Navy Tomcat legend behind a camera and let him tell the story his way. Heater takes us from KC-135 tanker ops with that infamous hard hose, to the kind of “how’d-you-do-that?” plug where he’s steady on the basket and still managing to grab photos mid-refuel. Then we pivot into Top Gun lore from someone who was actually there: the “Star Wars on Earth” in more ways than one; the image that helped ignite the franchise; two days of filming “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’,” and the blink-and-you’ll-miss-it mystery of a possible Darth Vader lurking in the background of the bar scene. Along the way, Heater breaks down what aviation photography really takes: planning, timing, composition, and the occasional blind shot that somehow becomes iconic. And years later, he’s still uncovering gems in old slide boxes that prove the best pictures sometimes outlive the moment by decades. Long-form, hilarious, and packed with aviation history and insider detail.

F-14 on the Fantail

Heater Paint Scheme

**Turns Like a Racquetball Off a Wall Episode 190** Dec 18, 2025
This week’s sponsor: Antigravity A1 Drone. **Learn more at** sothereiwas.us/antigravity

Episode 190 is what happens when you hand the mic to Captain CJ “Heater” Healy and then just try to keep up. Heater takes us from a childhood obsession with WWII airplanes to roller-coaster “G-training,” to flying—then *teaching*—at the highest levels of naval aviation. Along the way, we hit the $10 “Mexican Justice of the Peace” wedding that turned into a 53-year marriage, the fighter-pilot path that almost didn’t happen, and the mind-bending world of MiGs at Area 51 — yes, the ones that “smelled like a hydraulic leak with an electrical fire.” — Heater also reveals how a single photograph helped spark *Top Gun*, plus what it was like being on set and shooting real missile events that almost ended VERY badly with a very non-digital camera… including mid-flight film surgery. This one’s a top-five all-timer—no doubt.

The Shot that Changed His Life

Heater’s Paint Scheme

**A Little Slice of Hell Episode 189** Dec 11, 2025
In this week’s episode of *So There I Was*, Ike joins us with stories so wild they make the Quigley, Beirut, and Cherry Point weather sound like minor inconveniences. We open with Ike casually mentioning that he once found himself **upside-down over the North Atlantic at night** — because of course he did. From growing up under the Nashville approach path to being choked in boot camp for laughing, to nearly “smoking” the British ambassador in Beirut when his door gunner got jumpy, Ike’s journey from farm kid to single-seat attack pilot is a rollercoaster with no safety bar.

We hit everything: CH-46 shenanigans, A-4 aileron rolls where drop tanks were *definitely* still attached, Harrier culture, maintenance-shop misery, and why flying vertical is basically a religion. Add in toilet installations on mountain peaks, British PT instructors who try to kill you, and Marines being Marines… and you’ve got an episode that is equal parts chaos, nostalgia, and aviation gold.

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**Frankentanker Episode 188** Dec 04, 2025
B-2 stealth bomber test pilot Sparky joins *So There I Was* to explain why the world’s sneakiest bomber still can’t go direct to Liberal, Kansas without a paperwork migraine. From “switches up, auto missile, eat a sandwich” bomb runs to 24-hour missions fueled by go-pills, honey buckets, and a hacked-together cot, he walks us through life in a jet built for nuclear armageddon but terrible at simple IFR. Then we follow him to test pilot school at Edwards, where he flies everything from F-16s to flying boats, helps beat up the “Franken-tanker” KC-46, and explains how big airliners survive stalls, rejected takeoffs, and absurd crosswinds. Sparky also tells the sobering story of losing a classmate in a T-38 crash—and the piano-burning tradition that followed—before closing with the truly unbelievable tale of how Wayne Newton kissing his wife on stage earned him his call sign.

Burning a Piano

B-2 School Mates

Last TPS Flight

Using the Good Part of the Runway While Craters Get Fixed

Switch Up, Auto Missile, Eat a Sandwich Episode 187 Nov 27, 2025

Strap in, because Sparky’s ride from the C-17 to the B-2 is basically the aviation version of “What could possibly go wrong?” — except when everything did go wrong, and somehow nobody died. We open with Sparky nearly spearing aPassenger Airliner 737 at FL280 when the T-38’s pitot-static system decided to take the day off. That set the tone. Next, he walks us through dropping flares directly onto a detainee camp in Kandahar (oops), landing a 585,000-pound C-17 on a 3,000-foot dirt strip, and descending at 25,000 feet per minute because… why not? Then we move to the B-2, where one of the highlights is pressing one button and starting all four engines at once, like a nuclear-hardened Nespresso machine. Sparky’s stories swing from hilarious to jaw-dropping, and many would make an FAA inspector faint. It’s chaos, comedy, combat aviation, and classic So There I Was—all wrapped into two monster episodes… This week and next we are honored to welcome our first B-2 Spirit Pilot

**Compressor Stalls and Varsity Jets Episode 186** Nov 20, 2025
So There I Was dives into the UPS MD-11 crash, compressor stalls, and why some jets are “varsity airplanes.” Fig kicks things off with a flaming T-45 compressor stall story, then we walk through what we know so far about the UPS MD-11 crash, V1 decision speed, startle factor, and why “no fast hands” can literally save your life. From tail tanks and induced drag to cargo-pilot zombie sleep schedules, you’ll hear how big jets, night freight, and human factors all collide at high speed. Along the way we roast armchair investigators, explain jet engines and compressor stalls with a clever Taco Bell analogy from BadAss! We share some stories that will make every pilot nod and every non-aviator gasp. If you’ve ever wondered what really happens on the flight deck when everything goes sideways at rotation, this episode is your front-row seat.

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If Your Friend Jumped Off a Bridge Episode 185 Nov 13, 2025

Six Marines. One table. Zero chill. This round-robin mayhem starts with a Harrier pilot fishtailing toward a hover pad in Iwakuni, Japan when a yaw reaction-control literally comes loose and starts “helping” at random. From there, we spiral into why conventional landings in a Harrier are a last resort, how “taking the jog” at Cherry Point doesn’t mean going for a run! Then we chat about what happens when your fire light says, “Land. Now.” We talk PMCF flights when you shut your ONLY engine off on purpose (whose idea was that?), nozzle jams, outriggers, brake math with one brake, and a Spanish exchange pilot’s mishap that grounded a fleet. In between: Marines being Marines—bridges, beer, tape, typhoons, and the legendary Zero Hangar. It’s loud, fast, and occasionally naked (don’t ask).

Radar Inop Episode 184 Nov 06, 2025

Jedi’s back—and the brake-check lesson starts before the beers do. An F-4 slides into rainy Pensacola, our hero reports “good braking,” and a brick-built Marine promptly edits his vocabulary: “It’s poor.” Decades later, that same Marine reappears—through Jedi’s son. Aviation is a small world with a loud voice. From there, we ricochet through cockpit lore: a British captain freeing stuck throttles by axe-murdering a radar scope (maintenance note: “radar inop”), a Vampire jet literally pruning the only tree in northern Germany—onto a soldier, and the fine art of CRM when an FO treats a 767 like a single-seat fighter. Jedi also talks writing: Substack confessions, a new thriller, and why the FAA’s “kinder, gentler” era works when crews own their mistakes. It’s hangar talk at altitude—equal parts cautionary tale, comedy, and “don’t try this at home.” Strap in, stow your screwdriver, and remember: if a Marine asks about braking action… you already know the answer.

To read some amazing aviation stories and other life lessons by Jedi check out his substack here!

**Going to LZ-3 Episode 183** Oct 30, 2025
Allyn Hinton, Marine and Army aviator, joins So There I Was for a wild, first-person tour from low-level Huey recons over Da Nang to Blackhawks in Desert Storm. In this Allyn Hinton interview, he relives a smoke-grenade surprise that flushed eight guys from a bunker, a foot chase through a dry rice paddy, and a med-evac detour that out-prioritized a Korean officers’ trip to LZ-3! Then we leap to carrier quals, C-130 world travel, and the only thing harder than hovering: trying not to laugh while catching the “wrong” wire. Along the way, Hinton flies with his son, chauffeurs U.S. senators past oil-well fires, and explains why Marines embraced the “Purple Fox” moniker. It’s fast, funny, and shockingly human—aviation history told at rotor-wash speed. Listen now to feel the jet blast, the rotor thump, and the unmistakable Marine grin.

From Box Canyons to Brotherhood Episode 182 Oct 23, 2025

Nose pointed at a rock wall, rescue specialist on the skid, rotor wash bouncing off granite, and then—power loss. Abort! Welcome to the world of helicopter rescue with Double D, Arizona Department of Public Safety pilot and systems operator. He’s pulled climbers out of box canyons, rescued the stranded, recovered the fallen, and somehow lived to tell the story with gallows humor intact. Pete and Sticks dive into hoists, short-hauls, taglines, and near-death pucker-factor flying. We get into what it means to “move at the speed of safety,” how to manage canyon winds, and why teamwork matters more than horsepower when you’re hanging 200 feet below a chopper. Add in rotor-wash physics, and Dos Gringos jokes—it’s absurd, intense, and ridiculously good. Come for the rescues; stay for the adrenaline and the laughs.

For an instagram video of the opening rescue sequence on the show, look here

**My Introduction to Arizona Talcum Episode 181** Oct 16, 2025
Helicopter search and rescue takes center stage as DPS pilot Darrell Detty walks us through hair-raising missions, near-misses and small-town chases that feel like action movies with rotor wash. From a 50-foot hovering autorotation, governor failures and a frantic stolen-car pursuit that ends in a live carjacking rescue, to talcum-dust LZs and a barbed-wire fence that almost kissed the skid, this episode blends gritty rotor-head detail with absurd human moments. Expect clear lessons on the dead-man’s curve, manual-throttle saves, crew decision-making, and the weird mentorships that keep pilots sane. Laugh, cringe, and learn as we walk the thin line between heroics and hubris. Strap in, grab the collective, and hold on for rotor-powered storytelling.

And here’s a link that will raise your heart rate just sitting on the floor – you’ll STILL feel too high up! – TERRIFYING Hoist Rescue !

**I'm Here for My 45 Year Follow Up Episode 180** Oct 09, 2025
When a 21-year-old warrant officer thinks he’s bulletproof, fate (and a very determined round of enemy fire) impolitely disagrees. In this episode we ride shotgun with Cobra 3-1 — from Duluth misadventures and Playboy Clubs to flight school horrors, hovering triumphs, and the day a bullet turned a routine racetrack into a near-fatal last stand. He survives being shredded through his legs, gets stitched up by a miraculous surgeon, and later closes loops with the medic and chaplain who kept him breathing and believing. It’s equal parts grotesque, hilarious, and deeply human: the gallows humor of helicopter crews, the absurdity of military bureaucracy, reunion epiphanies, and the weird grace of Honor Flights. If you like flying-too-close-to-death stories served with dry wit, irreverent banter, and surprising moments of spiritual closure — buckle in! This isn’t just a war story; it’s a life told with profanity, humility, and a pilot’s stubborn joy.

**Porpoises, FOQA, and the Art of Not Looking Stupid Episode 179** Oct 02, 2025
Two Marines-turned-airline-pilots go full hangar-talk: first solo flight stories (equal parts terror and triumph), Harrier hover witchcraft, and why unstable approaches demand the magic words “unable” and “go-around.” We compare squadron life to airline ops, decode FOQA, MD-11 bounce-landings, porpoising, and laugh through “death-by-go-around” sim rides. We hit auto-lands, HUD/AOA, guarding the controls, and why seniority rules your calendar—and your soul. We even tiptoe across the third rail: raising pilot retirement age (opinion: individual fitness and cognition should matter more than a blunt number). Come for the aviation stories; stay for the checklist discipline and humor. It’s fast, funny, a little absurd—but always remember – it’s better to die and look good than live and look stupid!

RePete & Fig Recording the Show

**So There I Was Hangout Episode 178** Sep 25, 2025
Welcome to Hangout #2 of *So There I Was*—a gloriously unfiltered romp of Harrier stories and V-22 tales. Expect FAA side-eye and concussion-grade comedy. RePete and a very lightly concussed Fig corral Sticks, Bago, Lawman, Deuce, Mike Evans, and Col. Jim Schaefer for pure airshow mayhem. We relive Gallo’s rain-soaked Harrier demo that made the FAA clutch pearls. We bust a few Blue Angels myths. We even ask if a Harrier could land on I-93 without leaving a “Harrier kiss.”

Then we dive into Osprey translation. Why does the MV-22 fly like a dream—and sometimes like a rumor? Add 53 downwash that can relocate outhouses. Toss in a dolphin mega-pod trying to outpace a Coast Guard helo. Plus, a CH-53K “towing” an F-35 (because why not), the VMA-223 sundown, and a salute to Marines, families, and the legends who keep these stories alive.

Come for the aviation nerdery. Stay for the trophy shaped like… well, you’ll hear it. Subscribe, laugh, and check six.

**Squints and Moles Episode 177** Sep 18, 2025
NOTICE***There is going to be a Zoom ‘Hangout’ With the “Numbskulls” on 24 September. If you are a Patreon member or Direct Donor you should get an invitation. If not – check back here on the 24th. I will keep the link from being public until the 24th to prevent trolls from trying to ruin it.***NOTICE

So there I was… strapping into a seven-ton “dirt bike with wings.” The Marine Corps OV-10 Bronco was tough, noisy, and sometimes terrifying. It had no autopilot, a canopy down to your thighs, and a relief tube that occasionally worked like a fountain.

In this episode, Marine aviators **Felix** and **Pigpen** share unforgettable **OV-10 Bronco pilot stories from Desert Storm**. Flying what they called a “missile magnet,” they marked targets with rockets, juggled five radios, and trusted a GPS that only worked part-time.

Humor mixes with danger. You’ll hear about clogged piss tubes, aerobatic joyrides at 100 feet, and even Marines being launched out of the back of the Bronco. But you’ll also learn how these pilots survived night missions without mutual support and earned the deep gratitude of every grunt on the ground.

If you thought Harrier tales were wild, wait until you saddle up with the Bronco crowd. This is a mix of absurd humor, combat grit, and aviation history you won’t forget.

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Flare – Goin’ back to Cali!

**Don’t Be Afraid to Use the E-Word Episode 176** Sep 11, 2025
*Student pilot judgment* takes center stage in this absurdly true tale of near-misses, smart calls, and the mysterious power of the “E-word.” We welcome Chock as he fights through weather, maintenance gremlins, and schedule chaos on the winding road to his private pilot check ride. From an RV-12 with opinions to a Cirrus with a parachute and sparrows doing formation work on the runway, he keeps choosing discretion over disaster—and lives to laugh about it. We unpack why declaring an emergency is free (and wise), how to beat get-there-itis, and why a plastic credit card might be your best safety tool when the forecast lies. Chock’s now at Embry-Riddle, cruising through ground school, logging real-world Aeronautical Decision Making, and proving that repetition builds a rock-solid foundation. Come for the pretty lights and seven welcome wagons; stay to hear how not killing yourself is a habit you can practice.

**You Fly By Your Seat & Your Ears Episode 175** Sep 04, 2025
Booz, a freshly-minted CFI, New Hampshirite, and RePete’s daughter—whose glider-to-airline path includes a first solo at 15, a daddy-daughter cross-country in a Grumman Tiger, and a commercial check ride where a simulated engine roughness forced a wrong-side pattern call (good judgment > dogma). We talk density altitude (rude), VMC demos (also leg fatigue), and why hypoxia makes your alphabet wander off the page — thanks, hyperbaric chamber! An alternator gremlin in Texas led to a fateful diversion and meeting CFI legend Mary Latimer (GIFT) [Episode 162], proving aviation serendipity is real. Booz shares practical advice: take a discovery flight, consider scholarships and ANG paths, and remember progress isn’t linear—more like porpoising on a hot day. Come for the thunderstorm-dodging check ride, stay for the cactus awe, checklist Sharpie art, and donuts for the Feds. Listen, laugh, and maybe plot your own glider to CFI journey.

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**Moon Child Episode 174** Aug 28, 2025
Tito brought stories that will make you laugh, wince, and wonder why anyone gives gunners ANY spare time! Kool-Aid boots and hot-sauce toilets are savage reminders that no one is safe in a combat zone! Tito’s journey took him from slinging bombs as a “Load Toad,” to fighting fires in baked-potato suits, to strapping into the legendary AC-130 Spectre gunship—where 105mm recoil could literally make the airplane flinch. He survived dunkers, duct tape wars, pink-mist firefights, and kept Nair on hand as a weapon of revenge. And when he wasn’t flattening bad guys in Afghanistan and Iraq, he was saving lives in HH-60 Pave Hawks. Tito also wrote Moonchild, a raw memoir about combat, camaraderie, and finding humor in the absurd. If you like war stories spiked with ridiculous pranks, blunt honesty, and a side of absurdity, buckle up. This one will shake the walls.

Order his excellent memoir here!

Moon Child Book CoverVersion 1.0.0

**Moon Child Episode 174** Aug 28, 2025
Tito brought stories that will make you laugh, wince, and wonder why anyone gives gunners ANY spare time! Kool-Aid boots and hot-sauce toilets are savage reminders that no one is safe in a combat zone! Tito’s journey took him from slinging bombs as a “Load Toad,” to fighting fires in baked-potato suits, to strapping into the legendary AC-130 Spectre gunship—where 105mm recoil could literally make the airplane flinch. He survived dunkers, duct tape wars, pink-mist firefights, and kept Nair on hand as a weapon of revenge. And when he wasn’t flattening bad guys in Afghanistan and Iraq, he was saving lives in HH-60 Pave Hawks. Tito also wrote Moonchild, a raw memoir about combat, camaraderie, and finding humor in the absurd. If you like war stories spiked with ridiculous pranks, blunt honesty, and a side of absurdity, buckle up. This one will shake the walls.

Order his excellent memoir here!

Moon Child Book CoverVersion 1.0.0

**Time Flies: The Harrier Watch Episode 173** Aug 22, 2025
This special mid week episode of *So There I Was* takes a slight detour from our usual lineup of aviators and aircrew—but it’s still all about aviation at heart. Our guest, Mark, from Long Island Watch Co., joined us to share the story behind a limited-run Harrier commemorative watch designed in collaboration with the folks at Patuxent River Naval Air Station (PAX River). PAX, the Navy’s legendary flight test center, was the perfect place for the Harrier community to dream up a way to honor their jet as it heads into retirement. Mark walked us through the design cycle, the hoops of Boeing approvals, and the cool details built into the watch. And yes—Mark is a pilot himself, with a story about learning to fly in some of the busiest airspace around. Aviation, watches, and Harriers—you’ll find it all here.

You can see more about the watch here

You Can Order the watch here

**Hunting Tankers In The Desert Episode 172** Aug 21, 2025
Retired Marine AV-8B Harrier pilot, “Cutter,” brings stories that are equal parts funny and awe-inspiring. He kicks off with the 2005 twelve-ship departure from al-Asad—skimming the Saudi desert on fumes, praying the tankers showed up—before pushing through a 10.5-hour odyssey to Rota, Spain. He rewinds to OCS at Camp Upshur with 300 candidates lined up for a cold gamma-globulin shot, then to flight school in T-2s that needed a literal bicycle pump to make the radio work. Cutter recounts the logging cable in Japan that shredded his wing at 480 knots, and the engine fire in Yuma that ended in an ejection so violent it still rattles him. He explains how smart fixes and blade blending saved Harrier engines, why “Hobbitville” became a deployment, and how commanding MCAS Yuma eventually led to teaching in Vermont. It’s fast, funny, and human: Marine brotherhood, cockpit chaos, and leadership lessons from a Colonel who’s seen it all. Stick around for the Extra—Cutter at Mach .99 over on Patreon!

**Disco’s Canteen Got a Refill Episode 171** Aug 14, 2025
IIn this wild, laugh-until-your-ribs-hurt episode of *So There I Was*, we dive into **Marine Corps Harrier pilot stories** that blur the line between combat history and barroom legend. We round up a squadron of Harrier pilots — including Spiko, who joins mid-flight — for tales of 8.5-G nozzle breaks in the Philippines, midair collisions, midnight carrier deck landings, and questionable uses for government-issued canteens.

“Mongoose” lets the squadron run wild, “Woody” wakes up surrounded by boots, and one Marine’s coffee ritual nearly sparks an international hygiene incident. Between the absurd tales, these **Marine Corps Harrier pilot stories** also carry moments of respect for fallen brothers like LZ and Trey, memorials in their honor, and the unshakable loyalty forged only in the cockpit and combat zone.

If you enjoy this chaos in the cockpit, you’ll also love Episode 170 for even more Harrier tales and high-speed mishaps.

Equal parts irreverent and heartfelt, this is Marine aviation storytelling at its most unfiltered. Strap in, hold on, and prepare for impact. If you love authentic Marine Corps Harrier pilot stories, this episode delivers them with humor, heart, and the thrill of high-speed flight.

542 Pilot in a Harrier

**Disco’s Canteen Got a Refill Episode 171** Aug 14, 2025
IIn this wild, laugh-until-your-ribs-hurt episode of *So There I Was*, we dive into **Marine Corps Harrier pilot stories** that blur the line between combat history and barroom legend. We round up a squadron of Harrier pilots — including Spiko, who joins mid-flight — for tales of 8.5-G nozzle breaks in the Philippines, midair collisions, midnight carrier deck landings, and questionable uses for government-issued canteens.

“Mongoose” lets the squadron run wild, “Woody” wakes up surrounded by boots, and one Marine’s coffee ritual nearly sparks an international hygiene incident. Between the absurd tales, these **Marine Corps Harrier pilot stories** also carry moments of respect for fallen brothers like LZ and Trey, memorials in their honor, and the unshakable loyalty forged only in the cockpit and combat zone.

If you enjoy this chaos in the cockpit, you’ll also love Episode 170 for even more Harrier tales and high-speed mishaps.

Equal parts irreverent and heartfelt, this is Marine aviation storytelling at its most unfiltered. Strap in, hold on, and prepare for impact. If you love authentic Marine Corps Harrier pilot stories, this episode delivers them with humor, heart, and the thrill of high-speed flight.

542 Pilot in a Harrier

**Twisted Balls & Flaming Intakes Episode 170** Aug 07, 2025
Strap in and try not to twist your balls. This week’s episode goes full afterburner with the “Young Guns” of VMA-542: Auto, Disco, Pisser, Spiko, Strut, and Vapor join Fig and RePete to recount the wild, the ridiculous, and the occasionally flammable moments of Marine Harrier squadron glory.

There’s a missile shoot that nearly ends in a self-induced jet barbecue, poker games that could fund small countries, and bar fights with women who can deadlift your Harley. You’ll hear how napalm delivery tactics were invented on the fly (literally), how morale was fueled by Scope bottle cocktails, and how the infamous “Deadbeat Club” probably violated several Geneva Conventions.

This isn’t just war stories—it’s Marine aviation mythology, told by the guys who lived it, built it, and occasionally broke it.

Oh—and “Olo Polo”? We don’t know either. Just scream it into the void and roll tape.

**Hook Slaps & Nozzle Flops Episode 169** Jul 31, 2025
This week, we flip the script—Fig and RePete aren’t hosting, we’re the guests on The Flying Dutchman Show. Dutch dives into the stories, chaos, and camaraderie that define life as a Marine Harrier pilot, pulling out unforgettable tales from our years in the cockpit.

From flight school struggles and first carrier landings to NATOPS checkride drama and mid-air close calls, no part of Marine aviation is off limits. You’ll hear how Fig got his call sign, how RePete nearly lost his flight contract, and how both of us beat the odds to fly the legendary AV-8B.

We talk about our time in VMA-223, what makes the Harrier such a beast to fly, and why landing on a postage stamp at sea isn’t just a figure of speech. Whether you’re a pilot, veteran, or aviation junkie—if you’ve ever wondered what it takes to survive a nozzle-flop or why a death equation matters at 50 feet—this one’s for you.

https://youtu.be/v0KBqE97e5I

They Had Their Shoes On and Everything episode 168 Jul 24, 2025

So there he was…35 feet above the water, at night, trying to airlift survivors. What happens next involves a suitcase, a shrug, and one hell of a throw. Join So There I Was as Coast Guard helo pilot “Sticks” returns to recount harrowing rescues during the Texas floods—where flying into chaos is just another Tuesday.

From medevacs that look more like belly-flop contests to triaging 170 people solo in rising waters, Sticks paints a vivid—and frequently absurd—picture of what real-world Coast Guard rescues look like. We talk dynamic rollovers, helicopter dogfights (yep), shared controls (don’t try this at home), and why some paramedics apparently prefer jumping out of perfectly good aircraft with their shoes still on.

This one’s funny, terrifying, and humbling. Spoiler: someone ends up soaking wet, and it’s not just the patient.

🎧 Strap in. You’ll laugh, you’ll gasp, and you’ll come away thanking your local Coastie.

Early Is On Time, Unless You're Too Early Episode 167 Jul 17, 2025

From screw-up recruit to revered drill instructor, First Sergeant John Crouch takes us deep into the crucible of Marine Corps transformation. In this gripping episode, Crouch recalls his early days at bootcamp, his infamous misstep during the Laws of Land Warfare class, and the brutal but formative experience of Drill Instructor School at Parris Island. He shares harrowing tales of PT punishment, spit-shined leadership, and the unwavering standards that mold raw recruits into Marines. Whether he’s talking about the origin of “YUT!” or the moment he lost all attraction to a stunning Staff Sergeant mid-drip, Crouch delivers humor, humility, and hard-earned wisdom. You’ll hear how tradition, stress, and shared adversity forge the kind of leaders America needs. This one’s got everything: embarrassment, endurance, and the emotional gravity that only the Corps can provide. Don’t miss this raw, hilarious, and unforgettable ride through the making of a DI.

$174 in Pain and Pennies Episode 166 Jul 10, 2025

So there I was… with $174 in loose change, one Garande rifle, and a sandpit full of regret. In this unforgettable episode, retired Marine First Sergeant John Crouch returns to So There I Was to share a story so absurd, it should be fiction—but it’s 100% real! From psychological stress at Officer Candidate School to creative punishments involving unsecured wallets and rifles. And you’ll hear how a Medal of Honor dog tag program gave candidates something bigger than themselves to fight for—and how a quiet act of remembrance, years later, brought that message full circle. This one has it all. You’ll laugh, wince, and maybe reconsider ever presetting a lock again. Plus: the mystery of the disappearing platoon, and the officer candidate who DOR’d mid-leg lift (spoiler: she made captain). Whether you’re a vet, a pilot, or someone who just likes your wallets where you left them, this episode is a wild ride through discipline, leadership, and 34 pounds of copper and nickel-based motivation.

Goat Hunters, Jet Jocks & a $3,000 Rifle Episode 165 Jul 03, 2025

We’re honored to be joined by retired USCG Chief Claude Morrissey—a veteran rescue swimmer with decades of gripping search and rescue tales. From cliffside hoists in Kodiak to extracting F-18 pilots from the Atlantic, Claude brings raw stories, grit, humor, and humility. He shares what it takes to make it through the brutal Rescue Swimmer A-School, the harrowing rescues that shaped his career, and what it’s like to fly missions from the Bering Sea to Hurricane Katrina. This one’s packed with adrenaline, emotion, and classic “so there I was” storytelling you won’t find anywhere else. Stick around as we tease Fig for slacking, honor Claude’s incredible service, and try not to get kicked off our recording platform again.

Just Get Airborne Episode 164 Jun 28, 2025

Stealth takes us straight into the Cold War cockpit on a Navy E-2 Hawkeye as he stood the watch during some of America’s most tense moments. From scrambling on alert after Reagan was shot, to deploying over the North Atlantic in DEFCON 2, to narrowly avoiding catastrophe when a ‘friendly’ dropped a bomb on a U.S. cruiser—this episode is packed with edge-of-your-seat stories. Stealth shares what it was like controlling the airspace above the fleet, even spotting submarines that were ‘never there’ from 15,000 feet, and managing chaos (and comedy) from the radar station. It’s a mix of Cold War intensity, humor, and reverent remembrance for shipmates lost. Don’t miss this look into the flying saucer dome of naval aviation.

No Show – 19 June 2025 Jun 19, 2025

🎙️ No New Episode This Week – But Wait… It’s a Good Thing! 🎙️

Last week’s So There I Was with Dos Gringos clocked in at over 2 hours and 15 minutes — a wild ride packed with laughs, songs, and unforgettable stories. Add in some tech gremlins this week, and we figured: let’s give you a little more time to soak it all in.

If you haven’t heard it yet (or just want to hear it again), now’s your chance to dive back into the mayhem:

👉 https://sothereiwas.us/episode/163

Trust us — it’s one of our most epic episodes yet.

We’ll be back next week with a brand-new show. Until then… crank up the volume and enjoy more Dos Gringos!

— RePete & Fig ✈️🎧

We're Gonna Piss on That Episode 163 Jun 12, 2025

This very long—but hilarious and heartfelt—episode dives deep into fighter pilot culture; think less dogfights, more Dos Gringos. We sat down with the irreverent band, their musical wingmen from Los Gringos, and the founders of Winglore Spirits to talk whiskey, war stories, squadron bars, and the art of laughing at yourself. You’ll hear about bad rides that birthed great songs, the origin of Two’s Blind, near-death ejections, the mythos of Shaved Dog’s Ass, and a whiskey label that offers a conservative joker and generous bingo! This isn’t just an episode—it’s a celebration of camaraderie, chaos, and culture that spans generations of pilots, crew dogs, and hanger-flying heroes.

Note: We left this extra-long for a reason—trimming it would’ve felt like cutting verses from a fighter pilot anthem. Strap in and enjoy this episode for a couple of weeks!

I Was Only Going to Hit One Episode 162 Jun 05, 2025

She’s five feet tall and larger than life! She once grounded an entire A&P school’s ego. Meet Mary Latimer — a pilot, mechanic, controller, examiner, and walking aviation pioneer. In this episode, she narrowly avoids lawn-darting a Cessna 172 from 5,000 feet with no elevator control using trim like a Jedi, and managed a mag failure mid-checkride. She once told an Air Traffic Control manager she was only going to hit one airliner! From launching 2,000 passengers in one night to getting told to “go back to the kitchen,” Mary’s tales are equal parts horrifying and hilarious. Oh — and she turned a terrified passenger into a private pilot. Mary’s been breaking barriers, rules (when necessary), and stereotypes for over 50 years. Aviation students: take notes. Everyone else? Just hang on and try not to say “it gets hard sometimes” on the radio!

A Case of Scotch the Hard Way Episode 161 May 29, 2025

Ben Densley joins So There I Was to share his extraordinary journey—opening with a terrifying incident during a night parachute jump on to becoming a Green Beret, then a helicopter pilot in Vietnam. He recalls intense special forces training, covert operations in Laos, and flying for Air America in combat zones. Ben speaks candidly about the dangers he faced, the emotional toll of war, and the resilience needed to navigate PTSD. He also offers a behind-the-scenes look at missions involving rescues, supply drops, and demolitions. Post-war, Ben continued his aviation career with the NTSB and even flew for Trump Air. Along the way, he shares humorous stories, personal reflections, and gratitude for those who supported him through both war and peace. This episode is packed with history, heroism, and humanity—told by someone who lived it all.

ep-160 Canopy to Canopy — **Young Guns Episode 160** May 22, 2025
This week we hand the mic to **Pisser** — a Marine aviator whose call sign isn’t an insult… it’s a proven skill… Yes, he really can clear a 15-passenger van… LENGTH-WISE! From calling in fast movers to dropping bombs and one-liners, Pisser takes us on a high-speed run through the hilarity and hazards of military aviation. He crushed flight school, built tactical air control programs, and somehow kept a straight face through “murder boards” that were anything but academic. You’ll hear about combat missions, ballsy-flybys, and just enough bathroom humor to stay on brand. Strap in — this one’s got altitude, attitude, and absolutely no apologies.

**Young Guns Episode 160** May 22, 2025
This week we hand the mic to **Pisser** — a Marine aviator whose call sign isn’t an insult… it’s a proven skill… Yes, he really can clear a 15-passenger van… LENGTH-WISE! From calling in fast movers to dropping bombs and one-liners, Pisser takes us on a high-speed run through the hilarity and hazards of military aviation. He crushed flight school, built tactical air control programs, and somehow kept a straight face through “murder boards” that were anything but academic. You’ll hear about combat missions, ballsy-flybys, and just enough bathroom humor to stay on brand. Strap in — this one’s got altitude, attitude, and absolutely no apologies.

Tracer Fire; I Sorta Took That Personally Episode 159 May 15, 2025

In this riveting episode of So There I Was, we sit down with John “Apache 2-3” Haugen, a Vietnam-era Army aviator with stories that span from the draft line in 1968 to combat flying in the Mekong Delta. John shares how he dodged a ground-pounder fate by heading to Officer Candidate School, ultimately flying slicks and accumulating over 900 hours of combat flight time. With humor, humility, and gripping detail, he recounts narrow escapes, night missions, forced landings, and his close call in a mangrove swamp that led to a surreal “third man” experience. From learning in OH-23s and flying Hueys to coordinating strikes with Cobras and Puff the Magic Dragon, John’s stories highlight the courage, camaraderie, and absurdities of combat aviation in Vietnam. Bonus tales include bar tabs in Manhattan, unexpected rat-kebabs, and the elusive “Hawk’s” little black book. This is an episode packed with history, grit, and a whole lot of heart!

**The Enigmatic Aviator Episode 158** May 08, 2025
Dr. David Hamilton, retired surgeon and award-winning historian joins us to to discuss his upcoming book *The Enigmatic Aviator: Charles Lindbergh Revisited* (out May 21, 2025—on the 98th anniversary of Lindbergh’s legendary flight to Paris). Dr. Hamilton unveils the lesser-known side of Lindbergh—his pivotal contributions to medical science, organ perfusion technology, and even the design of early centrifuges. We explore Lindbergh’s engineering brilliance, his secretive private life, and how his scientific legacy was buried beneath decades of political smears and tabloid noise. From barnstorming to building perfusion pumps, from fighting with the Luftwaffe to shaping the future U.S. Air Force, Lindbergh’s life was more complex than the myths suggest. This deep dive is both revelatory and respectful, with stories you’ve never heard—because until now, no one had dug this deep.

Dr. Hamilton at the Smithsonian – Unusual, in that the Spirit of St. Louis was down for cleaning – NOT hanging from the ceiling as it usually is!

**The Longest Rescue Episode 157** May 01, 2025
Bill Robinson recounts the harrowing story of being shot down over North Vietnam in 1965 during a rescue mission gone sideways. What followed was nearly eight years as a prisoner of war — making him the longest-held enlisted POW in American history. From in-flight helicopter refueling with 55-gallon drums to the chaos of capture, jungle survival, torture, and eventual release, Robinson shares vivid memories and razor-sharp insights. His humor, humility, and perspective on service, sacrifice, and resilience offer a powerful reminder of the cost of war and the strength of the human spirit. You’ll hear tales of duct-taped helicopters, donkey competitions, and homemade POW education programs — all delivered with unforgettable wit. This is not just a history lesson — it’s living testimony from a true American hero.

**Get Comfortable Being Uncomfortable Episode 156** Apr 24, 2025
Former U.S. Coast Guard rescue swimmer Jason “Quinny” Quinn shares the harrowing story behind the Distinguished Flying Cross he earned after saving five people from a burning ship in the Bering Sea. With only one helicopter and 26 people reported in the water, Quinn was deployed near the vessel *Galaxy* as it rolled violently in 25-foot seas. Swimming close to massive propellers and through smoke and flames, he rescued survivor after survivor—fighting exhaustion, freezing water, and chaos along the way.

Quinn also takes us back to where it all started: growing up on a lake in Massachusetts, joining the Coast Guard, and training to become one of the elite. He describes the intense physical demands of rescue swimmer school and the mental toughness it takes to operate in the world’s most dangerous conditions.

This episode is packed with real-world rescue tactics, unforgettable training moments, and pulse-pounding close calls. It’s a gripping, high-stakes look inside the life-and-death world of Coast Guard search and rescue—told by one of the best to ever wear the fins.

He's Guilty, But He's a Nice Guy Episode 155 Apr 17, 2025

In this unforgettable episode of So There I Was, Howie Franklin—the only steward to serve five U.S. Presidents aboard Air Force One—joins us for an incredible deep dive into presidential history. With unmatched humor, insight, and warmth, Howie shares behind-the-scenes stories about Presidents Clinton, Reagan, Carter, Bush, and Ford. From rock-and-roll boombox diplomacy to emotional moments following family loss, Howie paints a vivid portrait of the human side of leadership.

He details what it was like to see President Clinton evolve in office, the unmatched organization of the Reagan administration, and hilarious anecdotes about presidential quirks—including broccoli mishaps and golf trip pranks. Howie’s tales span the globe, from Air Force One logistics in Moscow to midnight flights across the Mediterranean, all grounded in respect and service.

With humility and passion, Howie reminds us that behind every commander-in-chief is a hardworking team, and that leadership—at its best—is about compassion, service, and humor. If you’ve ever wanted a fly-on-the-wall perspective of history in motion, this episode delivers.

**You've Got Me in Steerage Episode 154** Apr 10, 2025
In this episode, Howie Franklin, the only flight steward to serve five U.S. Presidents aboard Air Force One, joins us with jaw-dropping stories from a life lived at the center of American history. It kicks off with a story with former Marine Commandant General Krulak and quickly dives into Howie’s early days — from rubbing elbows with celebs on Fire Island to working in elite kitchens as a teenager. Drafted into the Air Force, he found his way from a toxic chow hall in South Dakota to flying global missions with generals and diplomats. Howie shares how a single flight changed his life, landing him in a world of professionalism and purpose. We hear how he earned the trust of Henry Kissinger, cooked on diplomatic missions across the globe, and eventually became the go-to steward for Presidents Ford, Carter, Reagan, Bush, and Clinton. With vivid recollections of world leaders, near-farcical bathroom lines in midair, and White House-level logistics, this episode is a front-row seat to history—with plenty of laughs and a few “Did he just say that?” moments.

We're Gonna Get Skinny Episode 153 Apr 03, 2025

In this high-speed, low-altitude ride of So There I Was, the guest—a decorated WSO in both the F-111 Aardvark and F-15E Strike Eagle—shares some of the most intense moments of his flying career.

He takes us over the Nevada desert at Mach 1.3 and just 100 feet above ground level. He recalls near-misses, like narrowly avoiding an A-10 while threading a ridge line. The thrill of tactical aviation comes through in every story.

The episode also covers his nuclear weapons delivery training in Europe, pulling Gs at 600 knots, and precision strikes during Red and Green Flag exercises.

Listeners get an inside look at the F-111’s unique systems: its terrain-following radar, manually controlled swing wings, and infamous escape capsule.

Hair-raising tales continue with compressor stalls at Mach 1.69, sandstorm landings during Southern Watch, and using sheer speed to evade enemies in mock combat.

Throughout the episode, the guest delivers a masterclass in military aviation history, tactics, and aircraft systems—especially the Aardvark’s legendary low-level, high-speed mission profile.

**500 Looks at the Ball Episode 152** Mar 27, 2025
In August 2017, about 100 miles west of Key West, a Yort found himself in a tense moment during what was supposed to be a routine intercept mission. After being redirected to the Phantom airspace, he learned an aircraft might have gone down—a chilling way for any aviation story to turn serious.

That moment of uncertainty launched a gripping tale that unfolds with career-spanning insights into military aviation. From childhood memories of climbing into old B-17s to intense training with the Navy SEALs, to navigating ROTC, OCS, and finally flying F-18s off carriers, the story offers an unfiltered look at life as a Marine aviator.

There are moments of raw humor, anxiety, and pride as he details everything from flight school stress to pulling Gs in low-level bombing runs. Whether you’re an aviation aficionado or a fan of military stories, this account delivers authenticity, adrenaline, and plenty of dark-humored truth from life in the cockpit.

Refueling in the Basket

**Ass Over Teakettle in a Spin Episode 151** Mar 20, 2025
From a kid watching F-16s in Albuquerque to flying the legendary AV-8B Harrier, Warren’s journey into Marine Corps aviation is packed with twists, challenges, and near-disasters. It all started with a recruiter’s dare and his mother’s skepticism—fueling his path from Navy ROTC to the cockpit of one of the most unique aircraft in military aviation.

But the road to the sky wasn’t easy. Warren overcame a **broken leg in flight school**, a last-minute major change, and grueling combat missions over Iraq and Afghanistan. He pulls back the curtain on **white-knuckle night sorties**, navigating strict rules of engagement, and managing fuel over hostile terrain—where a single mistake could mean disaster.

Then there’s the moment that gives this episode its title: a **functional check flight gone horribly wrong**. At 18,000 feet, Warren found himself in an **uncontrolled spin… with no engine**. How did he survive? You’ll have to listen to find out.

This episode is loaded with **hidden gems**—including a **jaw-dropping story of rebuilding Harrier engines in record time** after catastrophic water contamination in Afghanistan.

And when you’re done here – go to our GiveAway page to enter to win one of 5 custom engraved flasks with your name or callsign etched on it!

**That's Us You Moron! Episode 150** Mar 13, 2025
🎙️**Episode 150: Fast Eddie Ed Cobleigh—Fighter Pilot & Aviation Adventure Author**

Strap in for a **high-speed, low-drag** episode as we welcome **“Fast Eddie” Ed Cobleigh**—fighter pilot, weapons instructor, and best-selling aviation author. If you’ve ever dreamed of **pulling 5 Gs, dodging bureaucracy, and outmaneuvering enemy fire**, this episode puts you **right in the cockpit**.

Fast Eddie shares **pulse-pounding** tales, from **weaving through the fog over Loch Ness** (yes, with an entire flight of jets) to **nearly giving the Shah of Iran a Maverick missile in the keester!** He dishes on **precision bombing with the Air Force, teaching Navy pilots a thing or two,** and somehow **calling a Luftwaffe-designed French brothel home**. *(Because, naturally.)*

This episode delivers **adrenaline, laughs, and jaw-dropping near-misses**—the kind that make your palms sweat and your respect for tactical aircraft skyrocket.

🔥 **Listen NOW, share with your squadron (real or imaginary), and remember:**

Give us **five stars** or risk being labeled **a moron on comms!** 🎧

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**My Leading Edge Episode 149** Mar 06, 2025
This week on *So There I Was*, **Jeff & Jay Moss** join us to share their unique journeys as **Army attack pilots and men of faith**. From the cockpit to the home front, their paths have been shaped by **battlefield decisions and life’s toughest challenges**—the kind that test both the body and the soul.

Jeff has faced **the crucible of war**. Jay has forged his own path, carrying on the family legacy as an attack pilot. Through it all, **faith, family bonds, and even a connection to a former President** have shaped their journey.

Their book, *My Leading Edge* (co-authored by **Jeff & Camille Moss**), is a powerful testament to **resilience through faith**. Facing incredible fear, helplessness and uncertainty when their beautiful daughter, Mallory, experienced life-threatening seizures and were told neither a cure nor a treatment were likely they turned to faith and friends. When Jeff’s faith was shaken, Camille’s remained steadfast. When she struggled, he found the strength to lift them both. **Together, they weathered life’s storms—offering a road map for perseverance, trust, and the unshakable power of belief.**

🔥 **Listen now!** | 📖 **Read My Leading Edge**

And here’s a link to the video where, for the first time, two generations of one family got to fly together as Pilots-in-Command of two generations of Army Attack helicopters.

**You Can Run, But You'll Just Die Tired Episode 148** Feb 27, 2025
**Buckle up for a wild ride with A-10 Warthog pilots T-Dub and Quintana!** From dodging bureaucracy to dodging bullets, these two bring hilarious and jaw-dropping combat stories straight from the cockpit. Hear about *strafing tanks in Iraq*, the **legendary Kandahar Unicorn**, and why **British Special Forces will obliterate anyone who messes with their dog**.

Expect **fighter pilot pranks, piddle pack nightmares, and some highly questionable call signs**. Oh, and did we mention an **explosion of 200 barrels of oil**? If you love aviation, military humor, and tales of airborne mayhem, this episode is *guns hot*!

🎧 **Listen now for the best A-10 Warthog pilot stories you’ll ever hear!**

Below are a couple HUD and ground videos we talked about during the episode!

**It's Like Surfing in the Sky Episode 147** Feb 20, 2025
**From ‘Worm’ to ‘Wolfy’:** A wild ride through a career in Naval Aviaton

What happens when a determined young man with a dream of flying almost misses his shot—only to have fate (and a sharp-eyed Naval Officer) step in? **Wolfy** joins us to share his incredible journey: from nearly missing his chance to serve, to nailing the **perfect interview**, to never, ever quitting.

Along the way, he’ll crack you up with stories of how **‘Worm’ became ‘Wolfy’**, and drop some unexpectedly deep wisdom—like what it’s like to **attend your own funeral**. Oh, and did we mention he’s worked alongside the **elite Navy SEALs** and somehow made it into the **Blue Angels**? Yeah, buckle up for this one.

**Laugh, learn, and get inspired**—you won’t want to miss this episode of *So There I Was*!

👉 **Listen now!**

**Don't Get Shot Episode 146** Feb 13, 2025
**JTAC Combat Stories with Black Rifle Coffee’s JT**

This week, *So There I Was* takes a wild turn as we welcome **JT—combat veteran, Air Force JTAC, and co-founder of Black Rifle Coffee Company**. Not only is he a **certified badass**, but he also runs a fund to support veterans and first responders—because **great coffee and great causes go hand in hand**.

**Surviving JTAC Training & Dodging Bullets**

JT shares **insane combat stories**, from his grueling selection process (spoiler: it involved deception, suffering, and maybe some regret) to *climbing a ladder in the middle of a warzone while F-16s screamed overhead*. What could possibly go wrong?

**Explosions, Cows & Annoying Canadians**

Ever wonder how to **seriously piss off a Canadian soldier**? Or what happens when military guys *accidentally* take out a **cow** with a .50 cal? Yeah, we go there.

**Don’t Miss This One!**

If you like **wild combat stories, dark military humor, and people making questionable decisions under fire**, this episode is for you.

🎧 **Listen now—just don’t get shot!**

**I'll Ram the Cockpit You Take the Tail Episode 145** Feb 06, 2025
Lucky may be the most fitting callsign ever. On September 11, 2001, she and her squadron were caught off guard—just like the rest of the nation. Thrust into an unprecedented mission, they had to adapt and overcome in real-time.

In this gripping firsthand account, hear how Lucky responded to the attacks, the challenges she faced, and why she still believes they failed that morning. This episode delivers a powerful inside look at one of the most pivotal days in modern American history.

**Put a Check Runway Strip Over the Guys You Don’t Want to Kill Episode 144** Jan 30, 2025
This week on *So There I Was*, we sit down with Dan from the *Danger Close* podcast—an active-duty ATC Tower Controller with a wealth of experience keeping the skies safe.

Dan takes us inside the tower, where every day is a mix of routine operations, high-pressure moments, and the occasional heart-stopping emergency. Ever wondered what really happens when pilots mess up on the radio? Or how controllers handle everything from student pilots to fast-moving military traffic? Dan shares the good, the bad, and the hilarious from behind the mic.

But that’s not all—Dan is also a Iraq War veteran with firsthand experience in high-stakes military operations. He talks about his time in service, the mindset required to make split-second decisions, and how those experiences shape the way he sees the world today.

It’s an episode packed with stories, insight, and the kind of no-BS perspective you can only get from someone who’s lived it. Don’t miss this one!

**Low, Heavy & Slow is No Way to Go Through Life Episode 143** Jan 23, 2025
Double-L comes back to chat with us about firefighting from the air! This episode takes an in-depth look at the dangers and challenges of aerial firefighting, featuring returning guest, Double-L. The discussion kicks off with his harrowing experiences flying C-130s through valleys engulfed in flames, emphasizing the immense risks pilots face. He shares firsthand accounts of Modular Airborne Firefighting Systems (MAFFS), strategies for containing wildfires, and the high-stakes decisions made in extreme conditions. From battling unpredictable microbursts to maneuvering through treacherous terrain, this episode provides an inside look at the crucial role military firefighting pilots play. The crew delves into the coordination required between agencies, the grueling pace of missions, and the ever-present dangers in the cockpit. Packed with real-life stories, technical insights, and a touch of humor, this episode sheds light on a little-known but vital aviation mission.

See the video of the show on YouTube here: https://tinyurl.com/SoThereIWas143

Here’s the URL to the YouTube of this episode including another video that Sticks played of a retardant lay-down run. https://tinyurl.com/SoThereIWas143

**A Pig in Space Episode 142** Jan 16, 2025
This week, A-10 pilot Soup shares the untold story of leading the first mission into Afghanistan during Operation Anaconda. Navigating chaotic airspace without deconfliction in a high-stakes “knife-fight in a phone booth” battlespace, Soup delivers gripping accounts of close air support, critical decisions, and coordinating dozens of aircraft to protect troops on the ground.

This episode dives into leadership, resilience, and the ingenuity of combat aviation, showcasing life-or-death stakes and the pride of serving. Perfect for military aviation enthusiasts and history buffs, Soup’s adrenaline-filled stories offer a rare glimpse into the bravery and dedication of those who serve. Don’t miss this powerful firsthand account of history in action!

**We’re Here - You’re There - Just Clear us Hot! Episode 141** Jan 09, 2025
Shyster joins us to talk about flying Marine Attack helicopters after being told by the recruiter, “The Air Force is down the hall.” After combat deployments, Shyster found himself at HMX-1 – The Presidential lift squadron – and one fateful morning in September when the world turned upside-down, Shyster was right there at the highest levels of our government watching and working in the highest-stress crisis management of his life.

DON’T miss this one!

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Best of 2024 - Happy New Year Episode 140 Jan 02, 2025

Some of the best stories of 2024. May you have a blessed and happy 2025. We’re thrilled you’re with us and we only ask that you please share the show with friends. Each chapter of this show lists the episode from which the story was taken.

Check Six!

So There I Was Hangout Episode 139 Dec 27, 2024

Welcome to the first ever So There I Was Hangout. Being as it’s the holiday week we are publishing this hangout as a show. Sound quality is rough in some parts and it’s not a ‘smooth’ interview… but there are thousands of folks who didn’t get to come hang out with us. We will do a “Best Of” show on New Years Day – and plan on resuming with regular interviews on the 9th January! We had a ball chatting with so many folks. We will do this again! Come join us next time!

Hangar Talk Episode 138 Dec 19, 2024

This week Fig, RePete & Sticks engage in some hangar talk this week as we had a tech issue preventing our scheduled guest from joining us. Hear us numbskulls recount some of the stories that led us to where we are today!

Hang Out with us on Zoom 22 Dec at 5PM Eastern Time

Click Here for the zoom link!

3 Beers In: Are You Guys OK to Fly? Episode 137 Dec 12, 2024

Hop aboard for a thrilling second episode with Bātar, packed with stories that will make you laugh, gasp, and question if pilots moonlight as comedians. The adventure kicks off with the baffling “Hawaii out of gas” debacle and revisits the unfinished “Football Island” tale from last week. Bātar shares a white-knuckle “Utility Hydraulic Failure” and a hilariously questionable moment with his pilot, Fox, debating their sobriety before a mission.

Get ready for livestock mishaps, slapstick-worthy landing gear incidents, and the thrill of 685 combat missions (including a wild drop of 24 bombs at once!). From dodging enemy fire to reflecting on the rare boredom when it wasn’t there, Bātar’s experiences are anything but ordinary. Add in SR-71 “that didn’t happen” moments, Great Santini antics, and an F-4 showdown, and you’ve got an episode that’s impossible to miss!

See below for Bātar’s Memoir!

**DOOM Club Episode 136** Dec 05, 2024
Join us on this exhilarating episode as we dive into the gripping tales of “Bātar,” a Marine Corps F-4 Phantom RIO who recounts his heart-pounding experiences in the skies over Vietnam. From navigating treetop-level ordnance runs while dodging streams of tracer fire to his journey from a mechanical engineering student at the University of Rochester to the cockpit of one of aviation’s most legendary aircraft, Bātar shares his unique perspective on life, combat, and the camaraderie of the Corps. With anecdotes that range from the humorous to the harrowing, this episode is a must-listen for military aviation enthusiasts and fans of thrilling stories alike.

We also explore Bātar’s reflections on the “Old Corps,” the evolution of aviation, and the challenges of his time. His memoirs, *A Marine Remembers the F-4*, offer a rare window into the life of a Marine RIO during one of the most turbulent periods in history. Buckle up for an unforgettable ride with Fig and RePete as we honor Bātar’s legacy and hear firsthand about his extraordinary life in the skies.

Bātar kept notes and used letters home that his mother kept to reconstruct his memoir – which he graciously shares here!

Nose Gear Shot! And Collapsed on Landing!

Phantom

RIO’s Radar

Dismount

Ready Room with A.C.

Chow Hall

F-4 Memories: A RIO Remembers the F-4

**DOOM Club Episode 136** Dec 05, 2024
Join us on this exhilarating episode as we dive into the gripping tales of “Bātar,” a Marine Corps F-4 Phantom RIO who recounts his heart-pounding experiences in the skies over Vietnam. From navigating treetop-level ordnance runs while dodging streams of tracer fire to his journey from a mechanical engineering student at the University of Rochester to the cockpit of one of aviation’s most legendary aircraft, Bātar shares his unique perspective on life, combat, and the camaraderie of the Corps. With anecdotes that range from the humorous to the harrowing, this episode is a must-listen for military aviation enthusiasts and fans of thrilling stories alike.

We also explore Bātar’s reflections on the “Old Corps,” the evolution of aviation, and the challenges of his time. His memoirs, *A Marine Remembers the F-4*, offer a rare window into the life of a Marine RIO during one of the most turbulent periods in history. Buckle up for an unforgettable ride with Fig and RePete as we honor Bātar’s legacy and hear firsthand about his extraordinary life in the skies.

Bātar kept notes and used letters home that his mother kept to reconstruct his memoir – which he graciously shares here!

Nose Gear Shot! And Collapsed on Landing!

Phantom

RIO’s Radar

Dismount

Ready Room with A.C.

Chow Hall

F-4 Memories: A RIO Remembers the F-4

**Oh $#¡+! Two's Hit! Episode 135** Nov 28, 2024
Retired USAF Col. “KC” shared incredible moments from her journey as an A-10 pilot, showcasing bravery, determination, and grit.

Some highlights include:

**The Lucky Rabbit’s Foot and a Baghdad Mission**

KC recounts a harrowing close air support mission over Baghdad in 2003. Battling poor visibility, she and her flight lead responded to a desperate call for help. Diving under the clouds, she targeted enemies beneath a bridge amid chaos. Her A-10 was hit by a surface-to-air missile, forcing her to fly in manual reversion. Despite the damage, she safely returned to base, demonstrating her skill, training, and the resilience of the Warthog.

**Why She Chose the A-10**

KC explains her decision to fly the A-10, the “Warthog,” drawn to its low-level mission focus and dedication to ground troops. Her story highlights the critical role of close air support and her pride in helping soldiers return home safely.

**Reflections That Save Lives**

KC shares how lessons from Desert Storm veterans and her training shaped her actions during crises. These stories became a lifeline in her most challenging moments.

KC’s vivid storytelling reveals what it means to serve with courage and commitment.

(U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Kristine Legate)

C-2 Greyhound Landing on a Carrier — **Look At That Mustache! You Can Trust That Guy Episode 134** Nov 21, 2024
Join us for part two with RobRoy! Hear about his Naval Academy days, life aboard a carrier, landing a C-2 Greyhound, his YouTube channel, FlyBuyer.com, and his final Navy tour. Don’t miss this engaging pilot-to-pilot conversation!

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**Look At That Mustache! You Can Trust That Guy Episode 134** Nov 21, 2024
Join us for part two with RobRoy! Hear about his Naval Academy days, life aboard a carrier, landing a C-2 Greyhound, his YouTube channel, FlyBuyer.com, and his final Navy tour. Don’t miss this engaging pilot-to-pilot conversation!

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**Pissed Off the Skipper Episode 133** Nov 14, 2024
Rob Roy’s path to becoming a Navy pilot started with inspiration from watching *Top Gun* as a child. Coming from a non-military background, he navigated the path to military aviation on his own, attending the U.S. Naval Academy and graduating in 2011. After completing Aviation Pre-flight Indoctrination in Pensacola, he trained in the T-34 and T-45, before Selecting C-2 Greyhounds, used for carrier onboard delivery. Rob’s journey included deployments, experiences in Corpus Christi, Texas, and roles that spanned from flying in high-stakes environments to assisting with logistics aboard carriers.

One highlight of Rob’s career was flying missions to carriers and ensuring delivery of personnel and supplies, showcasing the essential and often overlooked logistical backbone of naval aviation. He tells the story of getting his parents onto a carrier in the Mediterranean, and going around his Squadron CO (Skipper) to do so; a rare and meaningful gesture that illustrated his resourcefulness and deep connection to his family’s contributions. His tenure also involved unique assignments, transitioning aspirations, and navigating challenges with commanding officers, illustrating both the rigor and fulfillment of a naval aviator’s career.

**Balls-13 Episode 132** Nov 07, 2024
General Jay shares an intense aviation experience during Desert Storm. While on a KC-135 mission, his aircraft suddenly rolled sharply left and right, resulting in the detachment of two engines. The unexpected maneuver was later attributed to wake turbulence from another plane, which caused severe G-forces that sheared the bolts holding the engines. Despite losing power on one side and handling significant challenges, including hydraulic issues and fuel loss, the crew maintained control and safely landed the aircraft at King Abdulaziz International Airport, blowing several tires but remaining on the centerline. The investigation revealed no structural damage, showcasing the KC-135’s durability. General Jay’s recollections capture the complexity, quick thinking, and teamwork required in emergency situations. His story underscores the reliability of the KC-135 and the commitment of part-time guardsmen, balancing civilian careers while serving their country.

**You Can’t Just Pull Over on a Cloud Episode 131** Oct 31, 2024
In this episode, G. brings listeners along a remarkable journey from piloting the A-10 Warthog to operating drones in combat. One story that stands out is the transition to remotely piloted aircraft after a neck injury. When introduced to the world of RPAs, she faced the unique challenges of flying remotely and adapting to drone camera interfaces, something very different from a traditional cockpit. Her experience highlights the adaptability required in military aviation and the evolving role of drones in modern warfare.

She also shares her time at the prestigious Air Force Weapons School. Despite the odds — pregnant with her second child and the first-ever RPA student at the school — she navigated this demanding program, emerging as a skilled instructor. Her dedication and resilience shine, inspiring those around her. Wrapping up with insights into “Cross-check Mental Performance” training, she emphasizes the importance of mental agility for pilots. Through her stories, listeners gain a firsthand look at the courage, adaptability, and mental fortitude of military aviators.

**It Has To Be 10% Truth Episode 130** Oct 24, 2024
RePete and Fig are joined by “G,” a highly experienced pilot who instructed in both the T-37 and T-38, flew the A-10 Warthog (Thunderbolt), and operated the Reaper. She shares her remarkable journey into aviation. “G” recounts how she initially pursued the military without knowing much about it, joining Air Force ROTC and landing a pilot slot after what was initially thought to be a medical disqualification turned out to be a non-issue. Overcoming airsickness and various other challenges, “G” talks about her first assignment as an instructor pilot, where she developed a love for teaching. She candidly shares how she earned her callsign, “G-Spot,” after an amusing and confusing misread of her HUD during an A-10 attack training flight. The episode also delves into a nerve-wracking engine failure during her first A-10 flight in Korea and wraps up with a light-hearted story of encountering a persistent praying mantis en route to the Yokota Airshow. “G” is far too humble in her approach to her accomplished career. Her insights into the world of aviation are both inspiring and entertaining, making this an episode you won’t want to miss.

**I'm Going Back to Get My Nametag Episode 129** Oct 17, 2024
Bart shares the thrilling journey of his military service, beginning with a long flight from Japan to Saudi Arabia due to overflight restrictions. He humorously recalls the camaraderie and memorable moments with fellow officers during training. Upon arriving in Iraq, Bart’s experience takes an unexpected turn as he navigates logistical challenges, including a less-than-welcoming committee. The stakes heighten as Bart recounts his first combat missions, filled with adrenaline and unpredictability. Tension builds with the onset of Desert Storm, where Bart transitions from training exercises to live combat. The episode takes a dramatic turn when Bart is shot down during his 17th mission, captured by Iraqi forces, and experiences the surreal and dangerous reality of captivity. His eventual release and return to military life underscore the resilience and courage required in such intense circumstances.

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**They Love You Until You Punt One Into the Stands Episode 128** Oct 10, 2024
Bart takes us through some gripping moments from his Marine Corps career, starting with his during a change of command in Iraq. He talks about using the advanced Targeting Pod, known as the Litening Pod. Bart shares stories of operating early versions of the Litening pod and Lasing targets for Hornets on bombing missions, highlighting the technological advancements of the time. He recounts taking command of the 542 squadron in the desert and the challenges of leadership, explaining how admiration can be fleeting in such intense environments. As the episode progresses, Bart relives moments from Iraq in 2003 including what he now knows was a bad idea, but (most of) his Marines followed him anyway… a teachable moment as it were!

Harrier Division

**They Love You Until You Punt One Into the Stands Episode 128** Oct 10, 2024
Bart takes us through some gripping moments from his Marine Corps career, starting with his during a change of command in Iraq. He talks about using the advanced Targeting Pod, known as the Litening Pod. Bart shares stories of operating early versions of the Litening pod and Lasing targets for Hornets on bombing missions, highlighting the technological advancements of the time. He recounts taking command of the 542 squadron in the desert and the challenges of leadership, explaining how admiration can be fleeting in such intense environments. As the episode progresses, Bart relives moments from Iraq in 2003 including what he now knows was a bad idea, but (most of) his Marines followed him anyway… a teachable moment as it were!

Harrier Division

**I Didn’t Do It Episode 127** Oct 03, 2024
In this episode, we speak with Bart, a retired two-star general and Harrier pilot, as he shares his incredible journey from discovering his passion for aviation through ROTC to his experiences in the Gulf War, where he was shot down and taken prisoner. Bart recounts humorous anecdotes from flight school, the challenges of flying Harriers, and the camaraderie of military life. He reflects on the impact of his service, advocacy for aviation advancements, and his transition to civilian life. This engaging conversation offers listeners a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices of military personnel and highlights Bart’s humility and the remarkable stories from his career. Join us next week for further insights into Bart’s journey and the tales of other aviators.

Beautiful… Just ƒµ¢√¡π§ Beautiful Episode 126 Sep 26, 2024

This week on So There I Was, we continue our conversation with retired Marine Colonel and aviator extraordinaire, Baron. He shares how his career progressed after his initial experiences in the Iranian desert, covering his involvement in the development of the Marine Corps Weapons and Tactics Instructor program. Baron recounts his journey back to Yuma, where he eventually became the commanding officer of HMM-361. He also discusses his time as the V-22 Osprey program manager and the challenges of overseeing its development. Additionally, Baron reflects on some of the most harrowing moments from his Vietnam service, including surviving ground fire and earning his call sign “Baron.”

**I Hit Everything but the Tiger Episode 125** Sep 19, 2024
Baron joins us to tell of a harrowing story of survival during his first tour in Vietnam. After an engine exploded mid-flight, shrapnel tore through the aircraft, leaving the crew struggling to maintain altitude. With one engine failing and the other insufficient to keep them airborne, they made an emergency landing at Camp Eagle, narrowly avoiding disaster. The episode then explores how this veteran’s career in aviation began in high school, leading to an unexpected detour with the Marine Corps, and his path to becoming a helicopter pilot.

Hear a gripping first-hand account of pivotal moments, including his experiences flying heavy-lift and a mission that ended in disaster in the Iranian desert in April of 1980.

A Famous Neighbor!
Claude Akins

**Flying to Extremes Episode 124** Sep 12, 2024
Dominique Prinet, author and legendary bush pilot, recounts his harrowing experiences navigating the remote and unforgiving Canadian Arctic. Born in France just prior to World War II, Prinet’s passion for aviation began as a child watching aerial dogfights overhead. He shares captivating stories of his bush flying career, where he faced life-threatening situations, including flying overloaded planes, navigating without reliable instruments near the North Pole, and surviving plane crashes in freezing conditions. His most jaw-dropping tale involves descending through thick clouds, with ice accumulating on his plane, leaving him powerless to stop an inevitable crash—only to miraculously land safely on a hidden lake.

Prinet’s tales of resilience, survival, and near-death encounters are riveting, offering listeners a rare glimpse into the extreme conditions bush pilots endure. This episode is a must-listen for aviation enthusiasts, thrill-seekers, or anyone who appreciates the true grit it takes to survive in the wild skies. Prinet’s ability to laugh at danger and emerge victorious will leave listeners on the edge of their seats, eager for more. Buy his book – Flying to Extremes to get even more!

**A Stunned Mullet Episode 123** Sep 05, 2024
We’re thrilled to have Beef join us to share his incredible journey. From his formative days at Annapolis, where his roommate ‘Swede’ (featured in episode 115) introduced him to his sister, to his passion for motocross racing, and his impressive flying career with the S-3 and the Hornet. We’ll also dive into his experience as the Commanding Officer of the Blue Angels. This motivational speaker has some fantastic stories to tell. Enjoy!

Threshhold Braking

Officer & A Gentleman!

Boss & Crew Chief

Double Ugly Episode 122 Aug 29, 2024

This week features guest S.A.M., a Marine F-18 pilot with an impressive and unconventional career. ‘Sam’ shares stories from his time in the Marine Corps, including his journey from having a ground contract to aviator; the unexpected challenges of military aviation; and a memorable deployment during Operation Iraqi Freedom. He discusses the intricacies of flying combat missions, the challenges of carrier operations, and his eventual transition from an NFO to a pilot. The episode is filled with humor, insightful anecdotes, and a look at the unique culture within Marine aviation. Sam’s story highlights his resilience and adaptability throughout his military career.

**I Could Teach a Monkey to Fly in 2 Months Episode 121** Aug 22, 2024
We’re Baaack! *So There I Was*—the podcast where the stories are real, and sometimes, the lessons come from unlikely sources. Like this week’s gem: ever been told that even a monkey could do your job? Our guest, LoJack, sure has. When he was scrambling to get his private pilot’s license in just two months, his flight instructor looked him dead in the eye and said, “I could teach a monkey to fly in two months!” And that’s where it all began. From humble (and hilarious) beginnings to near-World War III incidents, LoJack’s journey is packed with the kind of stories you can’t make up. So, grab a seat and buckle up—this one’s going airborne!

The Boss is HAM'N Episode 120 Aug 15, 2024

So There I Was – It’s how ALL Great Aviation Tales Begin… This is a replay of episode 28: The Boss is HAM’N – Listen to Lawman and learn what it’s like to be a Blue Angel – from the camaraderie to the pranks they played on each other to the unbelievably close bonds they formed as they trusted each other with their very lives multiple times daily for years. Find out what ‘HAM’N’ means and why it’s important to do!

Your Going to Have to Talk Me Out Episode 119 Aug 08, 2024

So There I Was – It’s how ALL Great Aviation Tales Begin… This is episode 119. This is a replay of episode 64 – You’re Going to Have to Talk Me Out. This tells the tale of how ‘One-Eye’ extricated himself and 10 other wounded Marines from a scalding hot LZ (Landing Zone) in Vietnam. Not only should he not have been able to fly, none of those Marines should have survived the bad situation they were in, but for the heroic actions of this Marine who knew his machine so well that he could successfully fly it when 99.9% of humans on the planet would not have been able to accomplish what he did that night.

We’ll be back 22 August with a new guest!

**Put the Thing on the Thing Episode 118** Aug 01, 2024
Bacchus, our first Warthog driver and retired CT ANG Brigadier General shared stories from his extensive career as an A-10 pilot, air traffic controller / supervisor and a major airline pilot. Learn about his combat deployments and the challenges and rewards of air traffic control, as well as his deep-rooted love for aviation. The conversation highlighted the intricacies of air traffic control, the camaraderie among controllers, and the importance of clear communication between pilots and controllers.

We also delved into the A-10 ‘Hog’s combat capabilities, discussing missions over Iraq and personal experiences with the aircraft. The episode featured humorous anecdotes and insightful reflections, blending technical aviation insights with personal narratives. Additionally, we spotlight our sponsor, Flight Training International, and their pilot training programs.

Towards the end, Bacchus recounted a memorable low-fuel mission, explained the origin of his call sign inspired by the Greek god, and shared experiences from Aviano and the National Military Airspace Command.

CT ANG Warthog

Warthogs in Flight

F-100s

Original Sqn Aircraft

**For Flying Outloud Episode 117** Jul 25, 2024
Named after Scrabble’s podcast, this week we feature a dynamic conversation with British Royal Navy Sea Harrier pilot, Scrabble.

The episode blends humor, aviation tales, and insights into the life and experiences of a Royal Navy Harrier pilot. He shared stories from his aviation career, discussing the unique challenges and exhilarations of flying the Sea Harrier, including stories of engine an failure and a canopy shattering.

He also touched on his passion for gliding, highlighting the thrill of flying without an engine and participating in competitive glider races around the world.

We also delved into his efforts to help other pilots through his businesses, Flight Deck Wingman and Flight School Wingman, which assist pilots in navigating the complexities of airline recruitment processes.

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Flight Deck Wingman & Flight School Wingman

**Wings of My Father Episode 116** Jul 18, 2024
In this episode of “So There I Was,” we meet Messman, a former Navy P-3 Naval Flight Officer and a riveting storyteller with experiences that keep you on the edge of your seat. This episode features Messman’s harrowing and often humorous tales from his time as a naval flight officer and beyond.

Right from the start, Messman’s vibrant personality and candid storytelling grip you. He shares gritty details from his service in the 1960s, providing an authentic slice of military life during tumultuous times. His stories are filled with the rough-and-tumble of service life, complete with the candid and explicit language that marked the era, earning this podcast its explicit rating.

Messman recounts episodes that are as nerve-wracking as they are uproarious. From narrowly escaping death multiple times in a single flight to humorous and human interactions with Air Traffic controllers and fellow servicemen, his stories resonate with authenticity and a raw edge that’s rare.

This episode is more than just recounting tales of past glories; it’s a reflection on resilience, quick thinking, and the often-overlooked aspects of military camaraderie. Messman’s storytelling doesn’t just paint a picture of a man who has lived through extraordinary circumstances; it also offers listeners a vivid portrayal of the era’s cultural and social milieu, bringing history to life through personal recollection.

Wings of My Father Book Cover

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**Wings of My Father Episode 116** Jul 18, 2024
In this episode of “So There I Was,” we meet Messman, a former Navy P-3 Naval Flight Officer and a riveting storyteller with experiences that keep you on the edge of your seat. This episode features Messman’s harrowing and often humorous tales from his time as a naval flight officer and beyond.

Right from the start, Messman’s vibrant personality and candid storytelling grip you. He shares gritty details from his service in the 1960s, providing an authentic slice of military life during tumultuous times. His stories are filled with the rough-and-tumble of service life, complete with the candid and explicit language that marked the era, earning this podcast its explicit rating.

Messman recounts episodes that are as nerve-wracking as they are uproarious. From narrowly escaping death multiple times in a single flight to humorous and human interactions with Air Traffic controllers and fellow servicemen, his stories resonate with authenticity and a raw edge that’s rare.

This episode is more than just recounting tales of past glories; it’s a reflection on resilience, quick thinking, and the often-overlooked aspects of military camaraderie. Messman’s storytelling doesn’t just paint a picture of a man who has lived through extraordinary circumstances; it also offers listeners a vivid portrayal of the era’s cultural and social milieu, bringing history to life through personal recollection.

Wings of My Father Book Cover

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I'll Kick Your Little Pilot @$$ Episode 115 Jul 11, 2024

Swede joins us to talk about his Naval Career from The Boat School (USNA) to flying in the Patrol Navy. Some Amazing and hilarious stories are in this week’s show throughout. Don’t miss hearing about his near bail-out of a T-34 or how he got his callsign! Strap in and don’t sit on the condition lever! Swede will keep us straight & level!

**Accidental Fighter Pilot Episode 114** Jul 04, 2024
Hold on to your hats, because this week on *So There I Was*, we’ve got a guest who’s practically done it all. Fig and RePete are thrilled to welcome Paco to the cockpit as he takes us through his incredible journey from becoming a Navy Attack Pilot to soaring through the skies as a Navy Fighter Pilot.

Ever wondered what it’s like to stare death in the face and live to tell the tale? Well, Paco’s got a hair-raising story about a near-death experience in an F-5 that’ll have you on the edge of your seat. And let’s not forget the cherry on top – how he scored his own ‘private parking spot’ on Kemo’s six-o’clock! (Yes, you heard that right – we’re talking about a dogfight to remember).

So, buckle up and prepare for some high-flying hijinks, close calls, and plenty of laughs as Paco joins us for an episode that promises to be as thrilling as it is hilarious. Tune in to hear Fig and RePete navigate through Paco’s wild ride in the sky and find out why he’s the talk of the town – or should we say, the talk of the tarmac!

Don’t miss it – Episode 114 of *So There I Was* is taking off now!

**Is That A Trick Question? Episode 113** Jun 27, 2024
Cory Crowell, a former curator at the San Diego Air & Space Museum, joins us to share some of the many encounters he had with legends of history and aviation. From General Jimmy Doolittle to Neil Armstrong and even our friend from Episode 54, Brian Shul, Cory delivers the human side of these legendary aviators and his encounters with them during his 20 years at the museum.

Join us to hear these amazing and heart-warming tales of people who made history as Cory makes some of their history more personal and real.

Ray Crowell, Master Modelmaker, and his Ryan B-5 on display in the museum. 1981.

WWII ace, Blue Angel CO, and interim museum Director. 1953, 1980. Ray Cormier

Ray Cormier

Astronaut Wally Schirra demonstrated the redesigned hatch on Apollo VII. 1968.

Father, Ray Crowell, founder and 20-year supervisor of the museum’s Model Shop. 1980

My father, w/ trophy from the Air Force, & Atlas base activation crew. 1962.

Mercury astronauts Wally Schirra[L] and Alan Shepard enjoy a beverage at one of our museum fundraisers.

Neil Armstrong filming in our Wright Flyer diorama. 1991.

I loved painting ‘nose art’, the flags on the Spirit of St. Louis was my favorite project. [Detail: the circular area on British Honduras is the diameter of a quarter!

Still wearing helmet/goggles: 30 years old, flying out to the ‘Connie’ for my first arrested landing. [Inset: 9 yrs old]

(L-R) Museum President Bill, volunteer Josef and Ada Winkler, my father, Ray, and Larry, Josef’s mentor.

My first biplane ride, Merced, CA. I was 9

It's All Combat Episode 112 Jun 20, 2024

Spook joins us to talk about becoming a Marine pilot, Reuniting with Fig after 37 years, Flying the Hornet in the Marines and the Royal Australian Air Force. Find out why he chose the Marines over the Air Force and the Navy. Find out how he got his callsign. Learn that he has video proof that HE was the one to shoot down a drone tractor. Hear how he placed in a race he wasn’t even in. Find out why he was grounded on his 1000th hour in the Hornet – and why he became the Supreme Commander of Marine Forces, Northern Australia. All this and more in a great week with another great aviator!

**That Escalated Quickly Episode 111** Jun 13, 2024
Th is Kemo’s hat-trick show as we comes to tell us all about flying CAS (Hint – It’s NOT about Close Air Support!)

Flying Contract Air Services is a job most of us aren’t aware exists – What a waste! And a myriad of other subjects… try ‘n keep up!

Pulled the Handle! Just Not Very Hard Episode 110 Jun 06, 2024

In this episode, we delve into our experiences in the Marine Corps and aviation tales, prompted by guest Dan of the excellent Danger Close Podcast. Subscribe to that show here: Danger Close

Reflecting on how military service shaped us, we share stories of fallen comrades, challenges faced in emergencies, and the unique focus of the Danger Close podcast on war films. From Marine Corps values and leadership qualities to aviation missions and the intricacies of air traffic control, we explore the impact of perseverance, leadership, and the importance of staying calm under pressure in these roles. Discussing the attention to detail in war films, we analyze examples like “Saving Private Ryan,” balancing historical accuracy with entertainment value. Expressing gratitude for veterans and service members, we conclude with reflections on military portrayals in media and extend an invitation for further discussions on air traffic control and war films.

And for a bit of extra from Dan, look at SoThereIWas.us/Patreon to get exclusive extra content, like Dan telling about what happened in the Control Tower the day Asiana 214 Crashed in San Francisco in 2013.

Dan and his Father — **We’re Not Ready You Idiot Episode 109** May 30, 2024
This week on “So There I Was,” join hosts Fig & RePete and special guest Dan from the “Danger Close Podcast” as they embark on a thrilling exploration of a Marine Air Traffic Controller’s life turned podcaster. Experience firsthand the intense challenges of boot camp and the critical responsibilities within an Air Traffic Control Tower where every decision is crucial.

In this special collaboration episode, we delve into the gripping realities of Air Traffic Control (ATC). Discover jaw-dropping stories, including an unprecedented verbal confrontation that’s been kept secret until now. Ever wondered how a single word can flex as a noun, verb, adjective, gerund, participle, and exclamation? Tune in to learn how ATC professionals master the art of communication under pressure!

Plus, do you recall the Asiana Flight 777 incident at San Francisco Airport in 2013? Curious about what really happened in the control tower during that crisis? We’ve got an exclusive behind-the-scenes look just for our Patreon supporters. Visit our Patreon page at [https://sothereiwas.us/patreon] for an insider’s view during a major airport emergency. Buckle up for a riveting journey into the world of air traffic control—it’s going to be an unforgettable ride!

SFO Airport Diagram — **We’re Not Ready You Idiot Episode 109** May 30, 2024
This week on “So There I Was,” join hosts Fig & RePete and special guest Dan from the “Danger Close Podcast” as they embark on a thrilling exploration of a Marine Air Traffic Controller’s life turned podcaster. Experience firsthand the intense challenges of boot camp and the critical responsibilities within an Air Traffic Control Tower where every decision is crucial.

In this special collaboration episode, we delve into the gripping realities of Air Traffic Control (ATC). Discover jaw-dropping stories, including an unprecedented verbal confrontation that’s been kept secret until now. Ever wondered how a single word can flex as a noun, verb, adjective, gerund, participle, and exclamation? Tune in to learn how ATC professionals master the art of communication under pressure!

Plus, do you recall the Asiana Flight 777 incident at San Francisco Airport in 2013? Curious about what really happened in the control tower during that crisis? We’ve got an exclusive behind-the-scenes look just for our Patreon supporters. Visit our Patreon page at [https://sothereiwas.us/patreon] for an insider’s view during a major airport emergency. Buckle up for a riveting journey into the world of air traffic control—it’s going to be an unforgettable ride!

**It's a Lot Like Yesterday Episode 108** May 23, 2024
Join us on this week’s episode where we sit down with Bill “The Weatherguy” Korbell, a man who’s forecasted everything from monsoons in Thailand to the less-than-perfect day for a presidential flight. Starting off his career in the sweltering heat of 1960s Thailand with the 8th Tactical Fighter Wing, Bill was the go-to meteorologist briefing for Operation Bolo, which aimed to outsmart the nimble NV MiG 21s that were giving our bombers a hard time.

But as winds do, they shifted unexpectedly, and a last-minute change in orders rerouted Bill’s life straight to Washington D.C. There, among his high-flying duties, he briefed missions for none other than Air Force One.

Ever wondered how a small slip-up in weather forecasting could lead to an unforgettable podcast title? You’ll chuckle as Bill explains the mishap that inspired this week’s episode title: “It’s a Lot Like Yesterday.”

Post-Air Force, Bill didn’t just hang up his barometer. No, he soared into the world of radio and TV, where he managed to snag a ride in the Goodyear Blimp, Air Force One and flew with the Blue Angels—talk about a career high!

Now, grab your aviator glasses and tune in. Bill’s about to share some sky-high tales and invaluable insights on aviation weather that might just save your next flight from being a washout. Buckle up—it’s going to be a thrilling ride with Bill, where every cloud has a silver lining!

US Space Force Logo

Turbulence

Bill & Sal in their Cirrus

LtCol Bill Korbel, USAF

1st Lt Korbel Thailand 1966

General Robin Olds USAF

I got to fly the Goodyear Blimp

Cirrus hit this metroliner

A Ride with The Blues

**Bad-Assery & Jack-Assery Episode 107** May 16, 2024
Join us this week for an engaging conversation with Isaac G. Lee, author of “Hangar 4.” This groundbreaking book is the first to detail the Marine Corps’ CH-53E “Super Stallion” operations during Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom.

Known by his call sign “Whisky,” Lee provides a fascinating look at his illustrious career. His journey begins in Quantico’s dense forests and progresses to leading a CH-53 squadron. His experiences are detailed through personal journal entries.

Lee offers a unique insight into the challenges of flying the Marines’ largest helicopter in support of combat missions. His stories combine sharp humor with steadfast professionalism.

For exclusive content, visit our Patreon page at https://sothereiwas.us/patreon. Enjoy a gripping story about a ‘near-death’ encounter involving a lucky mule! Your support helps us deliver special content exclusively for our patrons.

May 8, 2005, Two CH-53 from Marine Heavy Lift Squadron 465 sit on the flight line of Al Asad, Iraq as a fire from the base dump illuminates the sky. (USMC photo by Cpl. Alicia M. Garcia)

U.S. Marine Maj. Isaac G. Lee, Operations Officer, Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 461 (HMH-461), transports a U.S. Army CH-47 Chinook for transport while piloting a CH-53 E Super Stallion during a Tactical Recovery of Aircraft and Personnel (TRAP), undisclosed location, Afghanistan, March 20, 2011. HMH-461 performs TRAP missions in order to retrieve U.S. Armed Forces equipment and conduct investigations in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Sgt. Ricardo A. Gomez/FOUO).

**Flying the “B-one” Episode 106** May 09, 2024
This week buckle up with Grease as he takes us on a high-flying journey through his storied aviation career. From zipping across skies in sleek Saber-Liners and Lear Jets to commanding the formidable B-1 Bomber and the elusive U-2, Grease has done it all.

He dives into the thrilling early days of the B-1 and reveals the sky-high challenges of piloting the U-2—like pre-breathing oxygen just to sidestep the bends and enduring nine-hour flights in a cockpit so tight, scratching your nose becomes a daydream.

With over 5000 flight hours and a staff tour under his belt, Grease’s tales are nothing short of aerial adventures. Fasten your seatbelts—it’s going to be an exhilarating ride!

**Halfway Around the World in 40 Days Episode 105** May 02, 2024
This week’s guest, KK, hails from East Germany—back when the Berlin Wall was more than just a memory. Believe it or not, flying was nowhere on her radar until one fateful birthday in her 40s when she was gifted a sightseeing flight that quite literally propelled her into the skies. From the second that engine roared to life, KK was smitten. She wasn’t just hooked—she was lassoed by the thrill of flight! Her newfound passion took flight, launching her through a whirlwind of background checks, mastering English, countless flight lessons, and even purchasing her very own aircraft. But why stop at just the sky? Dismissing the Atlantic as a mere puddle, KK embarked on a meticulous 20-month plan that led to a life-altering journey across the globe, which she brilliantly chronicles in her book: *Halfway Around the World in 40 Days*.

Buckle up and tune in as we dive into KK’s exhilarating tale. And don’t forget to grab her book—it’s your ticket to experiencing an adventure that 99.9% of humanity will only dream about!

KK Taxiing in her Grumman Traveler named Pegasus

KK on the wing of Pegasus

KK with a friend who helped along the way. — **Halfway Around the World in 40 Days Episode 105** May 02, 2024
This week’s guest, KK, hails from East Germany—back when the Berlin Wall was more than just a memory. Believe it or not, flying was nowhere on her radar until one fateful birthday in her 40s when she was gifted a sightseeing flight that quite literally propelled her into the skies. From the second that engine roared to life, KK was smitten. She wasn’t just hooked—she was lassoed by the thrill of flight! Her newfound passion took flight, launching her through a whirlwind of background checks, mastering English, countless flight lessons, and even purchasing her very own aircraft. But why stop at just the sky? Dismissing the Atlantic as a mere puddle, KK embarked on a meticulous 20-month plan that led to a life-altering journey across the globe, which she brilliantly chronicles in her book: *Halfway Around the World in 40 Days*.

Buckle up and tune in as we dive into KK’s exhilarating tale. And don’t forget to grab her book—it’s your ticket to experiencing an adventure that 99.9% of humanity will only dream about!

KK Taxiing in her Grumman Traveler named Pegasus

KK on the wing of Pegasus

**Coming Down Like a Gun Safe with a Lot of Guns Episode 104** Apr 25, 2024
Disco joins us to share tales from his thrilling experiences—from his days at OCS to piloting the AV-8B Harrier during the Gulf War and teaching both students and instructors in the Harrier Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS). With his vivid storytelling, sharp wit, and infectious humor, Disco’s narratives will leave you clutching your sides in laughter. His legendary pranks, executed fearlessly on anyone, are just as memorable. If he hadn’t succeeded in aviation, Disco undoubtedly had a promising career in stand-up comedy, with all the makings of a star.

**What's Your Call Sign? Episode 103** Apr 18, 2024
**Note:** Don’t miss out on even more laughs! Head over to https://sothereiwas.us/patreon to join and hear two additional hilarious call sign stories not included here!

In this wild episode of our podcast, we dive into the wild and whimsical world of naval aviation call signs with Lobo, the famed author of “What’s Your Call Sign?: The Hilarious Stories behind a Naval Aviation Tradition” Prepare to chuckle, gasp and sometimes howl outloud as we unveil eyebrow-raising tales from the skies. Imagine being dubbed ‘LAMCHOP’ or ‘FUNGUS’ by your fellow aviators. Hear about the tradition of kangaroo courts, where ridiculous fines and playful rules are the norms, certainly makes for some memorable nicknames!

Join us as we fly through a rollercoaster of quirky stories, including how one pilot ended up with the call sign ‘Panda’ after an unforgettable night in Thailand. Amid laughter, the discussion also touches on the cultural evolution post-Tailhook scandal, highlighting the unbreakable bonds and indispensable humor within the military community.

Our exploration doesn’t stop there! We dive deeper into the realm of military call signs, revealing the humorous and unforgettable stories behind these monikers, often inspired by pilots’ pranks and blunders. From near misses with power cables to transitioning between different helicopter types, our speakers share firsthand experiences that paint a vivid picture of both the challenges and triumphs in military aviation.

Tune in for a laughter-filled journey into the heart of naval aviation culture—where every call sign has a story, and every story is worth hearing!

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Warplane Episode 102 Apr 11, 2024

Buckle up for a jaunt through the skies with the dynamic duo Fig & RePete, known to the world as “Co-Horsts,” as they prepare to take you on a slightly less than ordinary flight with Professor Hal Sundt. He’s not just any guest; he’s the mind behind “Warplane: How the Military Reformers Birthed the A-10 Warthog,” and he’s about to drop some knowledge bombs about Pierre Sprey, the visionary behind the A-10 Warthog. Imagine, if you will, a man so devoted to the safety of ground troops that he conjured up an aircraft so robust, it’s practically a superhero of the skies, safeguarding lives for over five decades.

This episode isn’t just a history lesson; it’s an adventure that zigzags from the drawing boards where the A-10 was born to the heartfelt tributes to Mr. Sprey himself. Expect a journey filled with twists and turns, including a wild ride on an A-10 simulator that’s as close to flying as you can get without actually leaving the ground, and tank tests that seem to leap straight out of a movie scene.

So, if you’re in the mood for something that tickles your funny bone while enlightening you on the legendary A-10 Warthog and the remarkable people who brought it to life, Episode 102 is your ticket. Don’t forget to check out the merch store for some unique finds, get briefed with a nine-line, and snag a book recommendation that’s as riveting as the episode. Ready for takeoff? This episode promises amusement and insights in equal measure, without a single dull moment from start to finish.

**Fun in the Mach Loop Episode 101** Apr 04, 2024
Episode 101 of our show, “Fun in the Mach Loop,” promises a whirlwind of tales with our guest, “Sniper,” affectionately also known as “Divot,” a seasoned F-15 Strike Eagle pilot whose exploits in the skies are as thrilling as they are enlightening. From the nail-biting tension of being shadowed by French Mirages without diplomatic clearance to a dramatic engine failure over the North Sea, Sniper’s stories transport listeners into the cockpit of one of the most formidable fighters in the air. Dive into the Mach Loop, a notorious training area, where Sniper’s mastery of the Strike Eagle comes to life amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the UK. This episode isn’t just about the adrenaline of low-level flying; it’s a peek into the camaraderie that defines military aviation, the strategic nuances of international airspace, and the profound respect between the different branches of the military. Whether it’s giving a Marine a ride in Italy and discovering the stark contrasts in their living conditions or cheekily navigating international tensions, Sniper’s tales are a tribute to the skill, bravery, and humor that define the life of a fighter pilot. Strap in for “Fun in the Mach Loop” – it’s going to be an unforgettable flight!

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**MG NW SAK Episode 100** Mar 28, 2024
Welcome to So There I Was episode 100!!! This week’s title is short for, My Girlfriend, Now Wife, She’s a Keeper is a testament to persistence, love, and the unexpected journeys life can throw our way. In this episode, we delve into the remarkable story of Woody, who began his career in the skies as a load master. With every cargo secured and every flight a new lesson, his dreams of becoming a pilot seemed a distant star in the vast aviation universe.

Yet, despite numerous obstacles that threatened to ground his aspirations permanently, his unyielding persistence proved to be his greatest ally. Through the highs and lows, one constant remained: his then-girlfriend, now his wife, whose unwavering support and belief in him never faltered. Join us as we explore how his perseverance transformed potential setbacks into stepping stones towards achieving his dreams, proving that sometimes, the most challenging paths lead to the most rewarding destinations.

**Naïveté Was a Gift I Was Given Episode 99** Mar 21, 2024
Meet retired Marine Drill Instructor “JC,” the man who turned terrorizing into an art form for officer candidates dreaming of the skies! In his time, JC wasn’t just flying high as a Marine Plane Captain in an F-4 Phantom Squadron or mastering the systems as a Flight Engineer on the KC-130. Oh no, he was also the gatekeeper of dreams at the Navy’s Aviation Officers’ Candidate School in Pensacola.

Imagine trying to become a naval aviator with JC as your personal obstacle course! In his rollicking book, “The Pressure Cooker: Forging Naval Officers Through Marine Leadership,” JC recounts 240 hilarious and hair-raising stories from naval officers who somehow survived his drill sergeant tactics to earn their Ensign’s bars. These tales aren’t just stories; they’re rites of passage, signed, sealed, and delivered by the king of the candidate gauntlet himself. Want a peek into what it takes to soar through the ranks (and survive JC’s legendary “guidance”)? Buckle up, and grab a copy. Your flight lesson into the awe-inspiring begins now!

**I Lived! Now I Gotta Do It Again Episode 98** Mar 14, 2024
YouTube Pilot Debrief channel creator, Hoover, joins us to talk about Flight School, Flying the F-15 Strike Eagle in Combat, How he got the callsign “Hoover” and his time as an exchange pilot flying F/A-18 Hornets with the Marines; inlcuding becoming “Carrier Qual’d” – one of the few Air Force pilots ever to do so! Don’t miss this great interview!

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**I Saw the Ship's Propellers Episode 97** Mar 07, 2024
In episode 97 of “So There I Was,” Mooch, a former F-14 Rio Extraordinaire, shared gripping aviation experiences from intercepting Iranian P3s to near collisions over Morocco. From Naval Academy training to missions aboard the USS Independence, Mooch’s journey showcased the camaraderie within the aviation community. The discussion included anecdotes of aerial refueling, humorous incidents in flight, and technological advancements in carrier aviation. The interview also delved into Mooch’s time as VF-102 department head, deployments during the Bosnian War, and transition to teaching at the Naval Academy, along with personal projects like the Punk’s Trilogy and involvement in digital media.

This episode draws to a close with a brief solemn tribute to Marine Captain Jack Casey, who, in the line of duty, made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation just a week before we recorded. We extend our deepest gratitude to the courageous souls who pledge their lives to our country—a commitment that, for some, exacts the highest price, leaving behind a legacy of bravery and families who bear their loss with dignity.

Buy Ward’s books here on Amazon!
And visit his YouTube Channel here!

**Hoka Hey Episode 96** Feb 29, 2024
Dive into an electrifying episode of So There I Was, where hosts, Fig, RePete, and Sticks, engage in a riveting conversation with the “Great Tuntini.” In this episode, Tuntini returns to share his experiences piloting helicopters and the evolution of them as weapon platforms in the US Navy, delving into the significant advancements the US Navy has made to enhance their effectiveness in this role.

But that’s not all – Tuntini takes us on a gripping journey into the heart of darkness, recounting his “solo” nocturnal flights aboard naval ships. He sheds light on the critical mission to refine night takeoff procedures, aiming to combat the disorienting effects pilots face in the challenging, low-visibility conditions of the night sea.

The episode escalates as we pivot to the turbulent waters of the Red Sea, where the US Navy is currently engaged in one of its most intense combat environments since World War II. Experience the tension and high stakes as Tuntini describes the close-quarters combat – likened to a “knife fight in a phone booth” – where there’s no margin for error.

Don’t miss this compelling episode of “So There I Was” – it’s a masterclass in courage, innovation, and the raw realities of modern naval warfare.

**You Could Hear the Schrapnel Hit the Airplane Episode 95** Feb 22, 2024
This is an incredible week as our guest “Rosie” recalls his experiences growing up on a Kansas farm during the “Dust Bowl” years in the 1930s and going from austere beginnings to enlisting in the Army Air Corps on his 18th birthday. Not wanting to be an infantryman, Rosie passed the tests necessary and convinced the medics to let him fly when it looked like they might ground him. After training, he describes a brief respite home before going by train to the East Coast and boarding a ship for Italy; recounting an experience in Chicago that remained with him for the rest of the war.

He opens the show with a tease of one of his missions, which he was certain would be his last. Only a few months earlier he had been a Kansas farm boy and now he found himself occupying the nose-gunner’s turret on a B-17 Liberator. Ride along with us as we hear how he and his other very young crew members—boys, really—raised their hands together and became men, flying in a Liberator to defeat the greatest threat to the freedom of mankind in the 20th century.

Riveting, funny, poignant—Rosie brings it all and lays it in our laps. It’s no wonder he is part of that “Greatest Generation.”

In the first photo below:
**Back Row:** PFC Edwin Rossillon (nose gunner), Corporal Albert Turk (armament), Corporal Bert Silliman, PFC Bill Rude (tail gunner), Corporal Eugene Karpi (ﬂight engineer), PFG Jim Cox (ball turret gunner) **Front Row:** Flight Ofﬁcer Jim Nixon (airplane commander), 2nd Lt. Joe Lawson (navigator), Flight Ofﬁcer Otto Doville (copilot), Flight Ofﬁcer Gilce Richardson (bombardier)

Fins on Pigs Episode 94 Feb 15, 2024

In this riotous saga, a quartet of RePete, Fig, Sticks, and the impossibly chill pilot Ice (who’s cooler than a yeti’s icebox) – embark on a whirlwind of sky-high shenanigans. Ice, a maestro of the skies, has tamed both SH-60 helicopters and UH-1s in realms chillier than a snowman’s handshake—yep, Antarctica. He unveils tales of aerial school antics, including how to auto-rotate and that jaw-dropping moment when SH-60 float bags decided to throw a surprise party mid-air. Ice’s adventures span the globe, from a raucous initiation in Rota, Spain, that likely bent a few international rules, to onboard frolics that make pirate life seem downright orderly. Ever heard of the Great Potato Count during the Gulf War? That’s Ice’s unique take on military strategy. He reveals some of the hilariously bizarre tradition of pilot call signs and pranks that would give sitcom writers a run for their money, alongside stunts that laugh in the face of physics. Venturing into Antarctica wasn’t just flying; it was a blend of sorcery and survival, especially mastering the “Happy Camper School,” which was anything but a walk in the park. And for what was almost the grand “finale,” Ice shares how he once tamed a helicopter with no tail rotor authority, and describes the Antarctic version of slinging ‘livestock’ – hence “Fins on Pigs.” Buckle up for a hilariously turbulent journey that showcases the uproarious, untold tales of aviation bravado in the wintry wilds.

As for comebackyoga.org, it’s a beacon of zen for veterans, turning downward dogs into upward spirits with yoga mats as magic carpets. Who knew bending could be so mending?

Explaining Space to Neil Armstrong Episode 93 Feb 08, 2024

In an engaging episode, Gallo shares more unforgettable tales from his time as a test pilot. He tells of his first time flying a two-seat “T AV-8” marked by a canopy incident that almost ended disastrously. The conversation takes an unexpectedly humorous turn when Gallo finds himself explaining the nuances of space travel to none other than Neil Armstrong, the pioneer of lunar exploration. This moment, filled with irony and laughter, highlights Gallo’s unique ability to bridge generations and disciplines. Through this story, listeners are given a rare glimpse into the challenges and the importance of mentorship and humility that marked this exceptional aviator’s career.

**Got Me a SAG Card Episode 92** Feb 01, 2024
Dive into an extraordinary tale of survival with Guvna as he shares his heart-stopping experience of cheating death by mere milliseconds. From an unassuming start on a routine flight, fate takes a dramatic turn, thrusting him into a pulse-pounding showdown against the odds. Witness the incredible interplay of sheer luck, piloting prowess, masterful engineering, and the unforgiving forces of nature, all converging in a moment that could have been his last. Discover how Guvna emerged from the depths of a treacherous swamp, greeted by a couple of Bubbas… Really! This is not just a story; it’s a testament to the thin line between life and death. Tune in for an episode you simply don’t want to miss!

Sweet Tweet – “I had one moment in time during the (mishap) sequence where if I hadn’t let myself be distracted, I would have probably had an opportunity to fly (the jet) out. … But that incredible failure is key to who I have become.” — Lt. Col. Bo McGowan (photo by Tech. Sgt. Matthew Hannen)

Lt. Col. Bo McGowan and Maj. Jeff Grayson, members of the 97th Flying Training Squadron, prepare for their four-ship formation flight Oct. 2. This will be the last such formation flight at Sheppard for the T-37 Tweet as the transition to the T-6 Texan begins in 2008. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Tonnette Thompson)

**Treetop Level Across Gabon Episode 91** Jan 25, 2024
Fasten your seatbelts and prepare for a high-flying adventure with Kerry McCauley, the intrepid author of “Ferry Pilot” and “Dangerous Flights” as well as star of the Discovery Channel show by the same name; “Dangerous Flights.” He’s touching down on our show to share his thrilling and often unpredictable experiences in ferrying light civilian aircraft over oceans and through remote, challenging landscapes. These are places where these planes are as out of place as a penguin in the Sahara! Kerry’s stories are packed with suspense and surprises, reminding us that making it to the other side in one piece is more of a hope than a guarantee. Don’t miss out on episode 91 – it’s an aerial journey that promises more twists and turns than a roller coaster! 🛩️🌍

Blues Brothers Episode 90 Jan 18, 2024

Get ready for the finale of our chat with the one and only Gallo! This isn’t just any interview – it’s a rollercoaster ride through the epic tales of a man who practically became one with his Harrier jet. Picture this: a career so gripping, Gallo didn’t hang up his Harrier flying even after bidding adieu to the Marine Corps.

Oh, and remember “Kaos” from episodes 45 and 46? He and Gallo go way back and the reference to Art are about him!

Strap in for this episode. It’s not just enlightening; it’s a peek into the life of a Marine aviation icon who climbed to Major General. Spoiler alert: he originally thought he’d just do four years and vanish into civilian life.

**He Cold-cocked Me! Episode 89** Jan 11, 2024
Gallo joins us to talk about his time at the Naval Aceademy, why he chose the Marines and only planned to stay in for 4 years, flight school with the Air Force, Flying Phantoms in Combat in Vietnam, his transition to Harriers, Test Pilot assignments and much much more! A true legend of Marine Aviation – This is the first half of two shows with Gallo… Enjoy!

Enola Gay Crew

Paul Tibbets

**Smoke in the Tube Episode 88** Jan 04, 2024
Join us for an enthralling episode. We delve into the remarkable life story of Butch Rutt, a man of many talents and experiences. A high school dropout turned Navy P-3 Pilot, Rutt’s journey is anything but ordinary. From his time as a bail bondsman to his role in Customs & Border Patrol, his diverse career has been filled with unique challenges and adventures. One highlight of this episode is Rutt’s harrowing tale of being 1000 miles over the Pacific Ocean, facing an onboard fire. This episode promises to captivate listeners with its mix of suspense, danger, and the inspiring story of a man who continually overcame life’s unexpected turns. Tune in to for an experience that’s both exhilarating and deeply human.

**So There I Was: Best Stories Ever Part 2 Episode 87** Dec 28, 2023
This week we look back at the last 18 months and bring you some of the best of the stories and guests who have graciously spent time with us and shared their stories. We have Chaz, Moose, Bonnie, Father, Lawman, Yogi & Master, Vapor and Fister. Then the Dos Gringos close it out with I’m a Pilot! 🧑‍✈️ 🛩️ Happy New Year! See you in ’24!

And the photos this week are, again, courtesy of Brad Silcott at BDSAviationPhotography.com – The theme of these is focused on the pilots and crews of these magnificent flying machines! Kudos, Brad for some amazing shots! Thank you.

**So There I Was: Best Stories Ever Part 1 Episode 86** Dec 21, 2023
This week we look back at the last 18 months and bring you some of the best of the stories and guests who have graciously spent time with us and shared their stories. We have Nasty, Capt Royce Williams, Gunny, Kemo, One-Eye, Taco, Sugar, Double-L, Air-Cav-Chris & The Dos Gringos close it out with Jeremiah Weed!

Photos below are courtesy of Brad Silcott at BDSAviationPhotography.com
THANK YOU, Brad for allowing us to see your amazing work!8

Cobra

VMA-542 Tigers

CH-46 Sea Knight

CH-53 Stallion

**The 5th Day the Ship Blew Up Episode 85** Dec 14, 2023
Capt. Dave Dollarhide USN (ret) “Hide” honored us by spending an evening with us talking about his amazing career as a Naval Aviator. Currently the editor of the A-4Ever Skyhawk Journal online at Skyhawk.org, Hide brings us along on his journey from NAvCad in the mid 60s to the horrific day of July 29, 1967 while he was in his A-4 getting ready to launch from the USS Forrestal and a Zuni rocket misfired into the 400 gallon fuel tank of the A-4 parked next to him. When it was all over more than 134 Sailors and Marines had perished and another 167 including him were injured. Hear his first-hand account of that horrific day.

But it doesn’t end there. Hide’s aviation career and excitement was just getting started! Hear about his combat missions in Vietnam, his ejection from another A-4, flying the airshow circuit in A-4s into his 70s and how he survived a mid-air collision in an RV-4 when, sadly, the other pilot was lost.

This is not an episode you want to skip. Buckle in and hang on for a piece of aviation history!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-1Sr6gpdNC8

**Do We Need to Have a Talk? Episode 84** Dec 07, 2023
Get ready to soar with laughter in our chat with Sluggo, the ex-E-2C Hawkeye pilot with tales taller than a tail fin! Hear how a Naval Academy Midshipman’s mom innocently developed a film roll, giving new meaning to “naval exposure.” Hear how he navigated Aviation Officer Candidate School on one good leg and a wing. Sluggo’s not just full of high-flying stories but also some close shaves – like that time he played chicken with a hydraulic failure in the dead of night, danced with a ramp during a landing, and tamed a cocky student and went right back to work. Fasten your seatbelts, it’s going to be a hilariously bumpy ride!

Several E-2 Photos Courtesy of Brad Silcott – BDSAviationPhotography.Com

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hXOdqdpMPW0&t=2s

**Don't Worry, It's Insured Episode 83** Nov 30, 2023
In the dance of skies, Chucker’s tale unfolds,
Through starts and stops, his dream he holds.
Years, like clouds, drifted in his way,
Yet he seized his wings, come what may.

Rating earned, he soared anew,
To rotary wings, his path he drew.
From flight, a story, a laugh, a thrill,
to a moonshine raid to find a still.

In an ugly plane, he danced on air,
And a surprise solo, with flair to spare.
To a friend, a callsign, a jest so bright,
It’s Make-a-wish, but he’s alright.

Don’t miss the tales, in laughter dressed,
In Chucker’s journey, we’re truly blessed.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0KvwF3dtUao

**Logbook Entry: Almost Died Today Episode 82** Nov 23, 2023
Welcome Chris, whose flight tales we admire,
A West Point grad, in Air Cav attire.
In skies, his passion did conspire,
‘Army Training, Sir!’ his spirited fire.

At flight school, where challenges soar,
He pushed flying bounds, then pushed some more.
In cold Alaska’s daunting door,
Helicopter ops, survival lore.

A tale of hovering, smart and true,
From crash-bound paths, he skillfully flew.
Took controls with a deft maneuver,
Saving the day with his astute fervor.

With wildlife encounters, memories vast,
Each story a treasure, from first to last.
Join us to hear this aviator’s blast,
In skies his stories are unsurpassed!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cV9F4e9Vc7U&t=10s

**I'm a Frickin' Piñata Episode 81** Nov 16, 2023
Join hosts Fig and RePete as they explore the remarkable life of “Jungle,” a man whose experiences could fill an action-packed novel. From his beginnings in Navy ROTC to exhilarating missions piloting F-14Ds, Jungle’s story is a thrilling ride of high-stakes and remarkable achievements. Discover his incredible non-stop transcontinental flight, demanding desert operations, and the tense moments of Operation Southern Watch. Jungle also reveals behind-the-scenes tales from his time at Miramar, including the allure of the Miramar O’Club on Wednesday nights in Southern California. Immerse yourself in the suspense of night-time aircraft launch and recovery. Experience the excitement of narrowly avoiding ejection multiple times. Understand how Jungle’s motto, “Make them want to take you!” influenced single-seat pilots to appreciate the benefits of an additional crew member. This episode is more than a story; it’s a gateway into the life of an aviation icon. Tune in for an unmissable journey!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hVo5YludxHI&t=7s

**You Can't Make Me Airsick Episode 80** Nov 09, 2023
This week’s episode delves into Sal’s lifelong passion for aviation. It humorously touches on his military days when Drill Instructors refused to call him ‘Marinello,’ opting for ‘Private Ello’ instead, to avoid the word ‘Marine’ in his name!

Sal recounts his time with the 3d LAAM Battalion (HAWK Missiles) as well as the pivotal moment of his first flight, underscoring the seriousness of his commitment to learning. A highlight this week is the discussion of ‘Get-There-itis,’ a mindset that can prove fatal in aviation. He shares an anecdote about a commercial student’s unexpected surrender of the controls during a critical maneuver, revealing the unpredictability of instructing. Sal also shares an introduction to flight that he did when another student surprised him!

He also relays the aero training with the renowned Patty Wagstaff, which inspired this week’s title. He reflects on his first CFI Checkride which resulted in an initial failure that turned into a valuable lesson in life about persistence in the face of challenges. He concludes this week with a touching story of flying with his father, which he has documented in the Air Facts Journal.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KqB6AVznF6s
Raw recording session of our time with Sal!

**With Due Regard, You're Cleared Episode 79** Nov 02, 2023
This week we’re joined by Sticks who dives deep into his adventures with the Coast Guard’s MH-65 “Tupper-Wolf”, humorously described as “Airwolf meets Tupperware!” He recounts flying in challenging ‘zero-zero’ weather, the heartbreak of unsuccessful missions, and a unique rescue where not saving someone directly meant truly saving him. Hear about a man underestimating river currents with his car and Sticks’ uproarious tale from the ER involving a particularly ‘absent-minded’ patient. Tune in for these stories and more. Hold the antlers!

**I Went SERE School on Him Episode 78** Oct 26, 2023
This week’s riveting episode of “So There I Was” podcast, is Episode 78, featuring the incredible “SeaBass.” Originally turning away from the Marine Corps, SeaBass shockingly ended up retiring as a Marine LtCol with 22 years under his belt, but it wasn’t handed to him… in fact once you hear how he got in the Marine Corps, you’ll be as surprised as we were that he did get in; a life lesson in “Never take ‘No’ for an answer!”

He regales listeners with hair-raising tales: imagine approaching a boat without any visibility or experiencing the sheer panic of losing control of a Harrier’s engine at night. And then there’s the heart-stopping moment of “Going in for Guns” on a hornet – an event that thankfully didn’t have a tragic ending, but easily could have! Dive deep into this adrenaline-pumping journey and don’t forget to share it with fellow thrill-seekers! Don’t sit on the ejection handle!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vRfsrrkEgC8&list=PLXCCLXeDUs6y_W748OaDd86b5IkXszLIf

**Fire Coming Out the Go End Episode 77** Oct 19, 2023
Dive into the next episode of “So There I Was” and find yourself entranced by the tales of legendary Marine Harrier pilot, “Sugar.” Experience the thrilling moments of aviation as he recounts his vital role in the introduction of the AV-8A into the U.S. arsenal. Discover how Sugar’s unique experiences on helicopter carriers and other aircraft shaped the trajectory of his career. Hear many amusing stories including how he managed to secure a unique 30-day leave before joining the Amphibious Warfare School. Then you’ll want to explore his incredible journey through his five-book series “Sea Stories of a US Marine” that takes you from his initial enlistment to becoming a squadron commander. It’s an episode filled with heart, humor, and high-flying adventure – not to be missed!

Book 4 – Harrier

H-34 Flown in Vietnam by LtCol Spicer

LtCol Spicer in a Harrier

Sea Stories of a US Marine – Command

**1000 Answers and No Questions Episode 76** Oct 12, 2023
LtCol. W.R. Spicer, “Sugar” a Marine who rose from the rank of Private to command an AV-8 Harrier Squadron returns to tell us more stories from his amazing aviation career. We talk of his impressive background to set the stage for why he was able to repeatedly accomplish successful demonstration of the concept of VSTOL aviation. There were many intense situations which he faced, such as landing with limited fuel in a spot that was never designed or approved for landing. He always put the success of the Harrier program first and it paid off in spades. We reflect on close calls during landings and share stories from Vietnam. We also talk about gear, flight training experiences, and the importance of communication and maintenance. Thank you, Colonel Spicer, for your service and sharing your time with us!

AV-8A Flown by LtCol Spicer

Zeus Fitting

Book 4 – Harrier

H-34 Flown in Vietnam by LtCol Spicer

LtCol Spicer in a Harrier

**Don't Beat the Olympic Runner, Please! Episode 75** Oct 05, 2023
This week on So There I Was, RePete is joined by guest Co-Horst, Sticks whilst Fig vacations in Italy. Dive deep into the exhilarating world of Naval aviation with Briggs, a seasoned EP-3 pilot. From the intensity of Cold War intelligence missions to the pulse-pounding experience of night carrier operations, Briggs shares gripping tales that will have you at the edge of your seat. Hear about emergency landings, engine failures, and the high stakes game of naval chess with the Soviets. But it’s not all intense; there’s humor and nostalgia too. Learn about an unforgettable European commercial shoot with Olympic runner Derek Redman, and hear stories from the AOCS days that still bring a smile. With additional insights into harrowing helicopter deck landings, this episode promises a captivating blend of action, emotion, and nostalgia. Don’t miss this thrilling ride into the skies of Cold War history!

We spoke about the US Navy film ‘Pressure Point’ which prepares candidates for OCS during the show. You can see that by clicking this link.

Some of the photos from Briggs are below – and the raw recording session on YouTube is below that!

https://youtube.com/live/d9bTsdZ_iXY?feature=share

**Mattress 1, Harrier 0 Episode 74** Sep 28, 2023
In this thrilling episode, we’re joined by Fister, an elite Weapons and Tactics Instructor with an incredible story to share. Get ready to soar through the skies as he takes us on a pulse-pounding journey inside the cockpit of the AV-8B Harrier jump-jet. But that’s not all! Fister was the last Commanding Officer of VMAT-203, the legendary squadron where aspiring Harrier pilots learn to master this formidable aircraft. Brace yourself for a rollercoaster of hijinks and hilarious anecdotes that’ll have you on the edge of your seat… including the details of the time they once tried to land a Harrier with its gear up on a mattress! Spoiler alert: It DIDN’T go well! Don’t miss out on this exhilarating episode, and be sure to SHARE this show with a friend—it’s a wild ride you won’t want to keep to yourself!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1iU31W2hfJQ&t=28s

**156618, My Old War Horse Episode 73** Sep 21, 2023
Prepare for an exhilarating journey on this week’s episode of So There I Was, aptly titled “156618, My Old War Horse.” Listeners are in for a breathtaking adventure as they meet the remarkable “Hound,” who takes center stage alongside hosts Fig and RePete. Hound’s lifelong fascination with flight ignited in a small airplane, where he gazed upon his own house from the skies, setting the stage for a life of airborne intrigue.

Hound’s determination led him to the Naval Academy, his eyes fixed on becoming a carrier-based pilot. However, a twist of fate steered him away from the Marines when he uncovered the precarious nature of flight status within their ranks. Undaunted, he embarked on advanced jet training in Meridian, MS, ultimately choosing the RA-5C Vigilante—a Mach-2 photo reconnaissance jet—as his vessel of choice after completing flight school.

The heart-stopping apex of Hound’s narrative occurs as he finds himself virtually alone over the perilous skies of North Vietnam, facing an astonishing 11 SA-2 Surface-to-Air missiles, one of which strikes their aircraft. Through a combination of skill, unyielding determination, and a dash of incredible luck, Hound miraculously returns to the carrier.

But Hound’s odyssey doesn’t conclude there. He regales us with tales of flying iconic aircraft like the A-4s, A-5’s, F-4s, and F-14s, all while forsaking the allure of a desk job at the Pentagon.

This enthralling episode is an absolute must-listen for aviation aficionados and history enthusiasts alike. Special thanks to our Patreon “Pilots!” But, as the saying goes, “Money isn’t everything!” Don’t miss your chance to contribute by leaving reviews at the bottom of the Apple Podcast App and sharing the show with two friends this week, ensuring that the excitement spreads far and wide!

Sadly, She’s been scrapped!

The Old War Horse

Fast Times!

Fond Memories of Flying the “Vigi”

Manning up before being called back to go to war!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hmVN8htYt6Y

**A Bunch of Friggin' Balloons Episode 72** Sep 14, 2023
We conclude our visit with Taco as he offers a thrilling account of his adventures; starting with recounting his visit to Iwo Jima on the 50th anniversary of the WWII battle, where he met survivors of the invasion force and explored the frozen-in-time caves and bunkers, providing a unique perspective on history.

Taco also discusses other aviation experiences, sharing his regret over the unfortunate crash of his Cherokee after he sold it. He then touches on flying his 1929 Fleet bi-plane and its eventual sale to a friend in Australia.

The episode takes a ghastly turn when Taco describes the most terrifying moment he’s experienced in an aircraft, as he broke out of the clouds to a heart-stopping sight. This week’s episode aptly takes its title from that nerve-wracking incident.

As the show concludes, Taco shares an unbelievable yet true encounter with another aircraft, leaving us with a sense of wonder and amazement; How could this happen?! This episode promises a riveting journey through aviation tales that are nothing short of extraordinary. #AviationPodcast #AerialRefueling #KC-130Tanker

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sWmoJ261z_E&t=7s

**They Were Going to Die Anyway Episode 71** Sep 07, 2023
Get ready for an episode that’s going to take your aviation enthusiasm to new heights! In this episode, we’re leaving the ground behind to soar through the incredible stories with our guest, Marine KC-130 Tanker pilot, Taco.

This week we open with heartfelt messages from dedicated supporters and a nod to our new “Tanker Aircraft Commander Patron,” Sal Marinello and his selfless dedication to all who serve(d). Then we dive headfirst into the thrilling world of Marine Corps aviation. But this episode isn’t about us; it’s about Taco’s jaw-dropping experiences in the cockpit. From hair-raising intricate practical joke to caving in Okinawa, Taco’s tales will keep you on the edge of your seat. Why did it have to be spiders? 🕷️😳

So, fasten your seatbelts, because you won’t want to miss this epic journey with Taco. After you’ve heard these incredible stories, you’ll be itching to share this episode with your friends on social media. Trust us; this one’s a true aviation adventure that deserves to be shared far and wide! #AviationAdventure #TallTalesWithTaco #PodcastShare

https://youtube.com/live/sWmoJ261z_E
They Were Going to Die Anyway! Episode 71

**Fly Wire: Where's The Rock? Episode 70** Aug 31, 2023
Soaring to New Heights with Scott Perdue of “FlyWire”: An Episode You Can’t Miss!

This week we have an electrifying guest: Scott “Gunny” Perdue, the aviation mastermind behind the hit YouTube channel, “FlyWire”. Get ready to strap in and embark on a thrilling ride through the skies of Gunny’s experiences. From nail-biting encounters in the F-4 Phantom to the adrenaline-packed tales in the F-100 Fokker, this episode promises a captivating journey for all aviation enthusiasts.

But the altitude doesn’t drop there. As Gunny delves deep into his own airborne adventures, listeners are treated to heartfelt stories of a father’s legacy, the exhilarating highs and nerve-wracking lows in the Marine Corps, and jaw-dropping tales from the cockpit. From witnessing the harrowing crash of a Harrier and then a Crash-Fire-Rescue truck to the edge-of-the-seat narrative of flying formation visual at night, this episode guarantees an aerial experience like no other.

As the episode unfolds, we also dive into the world of aviation safety, the point of the FlyWire Channel – dissecting accidents and emphasizing the importance of situational awareness. Briefly discussed here are the challenges of high-altitude flying in a V-tail Bonanza to the myth-busting insights into spatial disorientation, there’s a wealth of knowledge for both rookie pilots and seasoned aviators. Buckle up, spread the wings of your imagination, and take flight with this not-to-be-missed episode!

https://youtube.com/live/0Dl5fC3Ga3c?feature=share
Live Raw Recording Session…

Compulsive Story Teller Episode: Me Too Mom Aug 30, 2023

As a special treat this week we are bringing you an episode from another podcast, The Compulsive Story Teller. Have you ever felt the pull of a compelling story? The kind that stays with you, long after it’s been told? Meet Gregg LeFevre, a New Yorker whose storytelling is not just a passion, but a compulsion. With over 200 public art projects worldwide, including NYC’s expansive Library Walk, Gregg’s work seamlessly blends historical narratives with artistic flair. His bronze reliefs and art pieces narrate forgotten events, from the African American burial ground at Foley Square to the Iowa City Literary Walk. But beyond the public spaces and the bronze, Gregg’s heart lies in the art of personal storytelling. A practice honed from family gatherings, where tales were more than entertainment—they were bridges to connection.

This lead to the birth of “The Compulsive Storyteller Podcast,” a space where Gregg dives deep, sharing stories that have shaped his life. Stories that not only entertain but also find common ground in our diverse world. Curious? We’re sharing an episode on our feed for you to get a taste of this exceptional show. Listen every Wednesday on Spotify or your favorite podcast platform. And for a visual treat of Gregg’s artistry, visit www.gregglefevre.com. Dive into the world of a master storyteller, and let’s celebrate the stories that connect us all.

**Too Busy for Officer Indoc Episode 69** Aug 24, 2023
Doc-Doc joined hosts Fig & RePete for an intriguing episode. A former Navy flight surgeon in a Marine Harrier Squadron, Doc-Doc tells how he became a flight surgeon in spite of not having any previous pull towards aviation. Hear captivating stories of honor from the Black world famous “Black Sheep Squadron.” And in the prologue, Fig talks up a veteran’s outdoor adventure nonprofit outfit in Michigan providing services to Active, retired, veterans, first responders, blue and gold-star families! Our first military Flight Surgeon, explore the world of as seen by the Doc who worked to keep the squadron pilots flying. Near the end we wander into the subject of tattoos, their permanence, and removal methods. Engaging, informative, and entertaining – don’t miss this episode!

Night View Harrier Cockpit

On a C-130 to the Philippines

Digging up an ex-Harrier

Digging up an ex-Harrier

Digging up an ex-Harrier

https://youtube.com/live/ZSAO10zD-1Q
Live Recording Session…

**I'm a Caveman Lawyer - I Don't Lie for Free Episode 68** Aug 17, 2023
Ready to Dive into an Adventure?** 🚁🎤

Hold onto your headphones, folks, because this episode is jam-packed with laughter, twists, and turns! Ever heard of an attorney who flies rescue helicopters and was once a suspect in a sledgehammer & Hello-Kitty-umbrella burglary? 😂🌂🔨 If you’re scratching your head, you’re not alone!

🚁 Deus, with a career more colorful than a Mardi Gras parade, spills the beans on his roller-coaster ride of a life. Imagine stepping into flight school, promised your dream station, with just *one tiny catch* – “Stay east of the Mississippi!” From jaw-dropping rescue missions post-Hurricane Katrina to being mistaken for a bizarre burglar, Deus offers an infectious mix of hilarity and heart.

🎙 And, as if that wasn’t enough, Sticks, another sky-soaring Coast Guard Pilot, and partner-in-crime (figuratively, of course!), hops in. Ready for a nostalgia trip? These two air veterans don’t hold back, ribbing each other and sharing their most memorable sky-high shenanigans.

✨ Whether you’re here for the thrills, the spills, or just for a darn good chuckle, this is *the* episode for you. Serious tales, served with a side of smiles. Don’t miss out! 🎧🤩

Power Off Operations

CG Ops Center NOLa

Rotweillers On Helos!

NOLa Under Water

Real New Orleans Saints!

Chem Plant on Fire

HH-65 Dolphin

Wow!

Have Chain Saw Will Travel

Mother & Child

Water Treatment Plant

Time Magazine

Helmet, Wet Suit & Boots!

https://youtu.be/Gz3FRBesAAw

**Blancolirio Episode 67** Aug 10, 2023
Tune in to this week’s episode of “So There I Was” as we navigate the skies with Juan Browne, the mastermind of the Blancolirio Channel on YouTube! Ever marveled at his gift for demystifying intricate topics? Curious about the origins of his channel’s name? Dive into Juan’s riveting tales, including the heart-stopping moment he found himself in an inverted flat spin, with no prior training on how to escape! From childhood dreams of aviation to facing dire aerial challenges, Juan weaves humor and expertise seamlessly. Whether you’re an aviation aficionado or a lover of thrilling stories, this episode is a must-listen. Don’t be left grounded – catch this flight of adventure!

https://youtu.be/MIOQKvIuG2M

**Full Throttle Episode 66** Aug 03, 2023
Intake brings listeners on a thrilling journey through his life. From his time as a squadron commander and Blue Angel solo pilot, to his daring work as a Hollywood stunt pilot for the movie Top Gun Maverick, Intake’s experiences in the cockpit are nothing short of breathtaking. His tales of close calls, shenanigans, and the intense teamwork required to fly the F-18 paint a vivid picture of life in the sky.

Beyond his aerial accomplishments, Intake’s dedication to helping others shines through as he discusses his involvement with the Blue Angels Foundation. A passionate advocate for veterans, he emphasizes the importance of continuity of care and support in various areas, particularly during the often challenging transition to civilian life. In his inspiring book, “Full Throttle, from the Blue Angels to Hollywood Stunt Pilot” Intake shares personal stories and insights aimed at raising awareness about mental health and supporting the cause he holds dear. His sense of humor, wisdom, and commitment to service make this episode an engaging and inspiring listen.

To get your copy of Full Throttle autographed by Intake, please send it to this address:

Cdr Scott Kartvedt USN (ret)

26 Berthe Circle Colorado Springs, CO 80906

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jJvNbuwSEwk

**You Tight Like Onion Episode 65** Jul 27, 2023
Onion shares gripping stories from his time as a Marine Fighter / Attack Pilot. He recounts a situation in Iraq where he witnessed the resourcefulness of Marines who called for an air strike in a very unconventional manner when they were surrounded by Iraqi tanks. Onion’s most coincidental story involves helping Vapor (episode 62) who ejected from a Harrier without hydraulics and wound up navigating a minefield to reach friendly territory. He then completes the story that opens the show where he describes what is essentially, “waiting to die” in an inverted pull out close to the ground – bottoming out below 200 feet.

The episode delves into the tight-knit Marine Corps aviation community and Onion’s experiences during the Gulf War. He recalls flying night missions, learning how to use the F/A-18 D night attack to its fullest and facing intense AAA fire while marking targets. Onion reflects on the challenges of aging and how his sons remind him of his declining abilities. He expresses gratitude towards influential figures in his life. The episode concludes with lighthearted reflection on Marine Corps Officer Candidate School and appreciation for guest Onion’s service.

Won’t you please go to Apple Podcasts and give us a positive review? Here’s how!

**You're Going To Have to Talk Me Out Episode 64** Jul 20, 2023
This week’s description is short and sweet. One-Eye joined us to talk about becoming a Marine and his career… punctuated by one of the most heroic acts ever performed in a helicopter. Nothing more to say. Don’t miss this show!

**Get the Money First Episode 63** Jul 13, 2023
Lawman returns with an action-packed show. Get ready for intriguing stories, heartfelt tributes, and unforgettable moments. Lawman kicks off the show with a touching tribute to our friend and fellow pilot, Brian Shul, with reflections on their shared experiences. Then, he takes us on a crazy adventure with the 13th MEU, exploring vibrant cities like Hong Kong, Singapore, and Phuket. It wasn’t good. . . but we set a record for about six potential show titles in under two minutes! Then, Lawman humorously ponders the whereabouts of his comrades on HMS Invincible; needless to say, hungover and naked is no way to brief a flgiht. The episode takes unexpected turns with stories from Phuket, Mexico, and Lawman’s days as an Arizona State Trooper. From “Pimping Thai Whores” to “The Two Pretzels,” Lawman’s tales will keep you hooked and howling! Don’t miss this thrilling and entertaining show.

**Stay In the Ejection Envelope Episode 62** Jul 06, 2023
This week Vapor Joins us to talk about his remarkable journey from flight school through his extraordinary career. From the Far East to Desert Storm and beyond, Vapor’s stories will keep you hooked, blending humor, tragedy, and spine-chilling moments.

Prepare to be transported as Vapor recounts his unbelievable experience; of ejecting from a crippled jet over enemy territory; catapulted back in time from 20th century attack pilot to 1st century foot soldier alone in the desert with the enemy he’d just been bombing close at hand.

This episode is a thrilling ride that is longer than usual, but trust us, time will fly by. While you’re listening in the Apple Podcasts app, would you please give us a 5-star rating and write a review of the show?

Also, please share this show to your Facebook page so others can discover the fun we’re having with these amazing guests! Thank you.

This episode is made possible by our incredible sponsor, Hello Fresh. Plus, we’re excited to announce a special show-swap mention with the Flight Safety Detectives Podcast this week. Tune in for an unforgettable adventure!

https://youtube.com/live/Jig3kKN-3VI?feature=share
Our raw recording session with Vapor!

**Don't Ever Do That Again Episode 61** Jun 29, 2023
Welcome to episode 61 of “So There I Was”! Get ready to be captivated by an extraordinary tale that starts with a group of Vietnam buddies, hunting pheasants and sharing stories on a family farm. Little did they know, these gatherings would ignite a passion in a young boy, propelling him to become a Marine helicopter pilot.

But here’s the twist – Doober already had a staggering 1000 hours of flight time before he even attended Officer Candidate School! His journey continued as a high school student, working alongside his father as a ground controller for heavy lift operations. The foundation was being laid for something truly remarkable.

In flight school, Doober’s extensive flight experience couldn’t stay hidden for long. A daring move that shouldn’t be repeated revealed his true skills, setting the stage for his entrance into the legendary Ugly Angels, HMH-362, and earning the callsign “Doober” along the way.

But that was just the beginning. Doober’s career took an unexpected turn as he found himself flying the President and Vice President in HMX-1, the prestigious Marine Helicopter Squadron responsible for such crucial duties.

And when it seemed like the story had reached its climax, Doober made a life-altering decision. He retired from the Marine Corps as a Lieutenant Colonel and returned to the family farm, where his journey had all begun. Throughout his incredible journey, one person stood out as a guiding force – his dad.

Prepare to be inspired as we delve deeper into Doober’s extraordinary life.

This episode of “So There I Was” is brought to you by Hello Fresh, America’s #1 Meal Kit. Get ready to indulge in delicious, hassle-free cooking. Visit hellofresh.com/sothereiwas16 for an exclusive offer of 16 free meals and free shipping. Stay tuned for more details about Hello Fresh during the show!

Doober & Dad in the simulator

Dad & Doober Go in the Corps

Doober in Front of Marine 1

White Horse Scotch & Vinegar Episode 60 Jun 22, 2023

Lieutenant Colonel “Moose” Lutes, a Marine Helicopter, Fighter and Attack pilot with an incredible career spanning over 20 years joins the Fig & RePete to tell about his career spanning from the 50s through the mid 70s. Moose’s journey began with an airplane ride to Memphis. He decided to take the Navy up on an offer of a plane ride because he thought he “probably wouldn’t ever get to fly again.” Little did he know, this would be the start of an amazing adventure that would take him to the Philippines, Japan, Hawaii, Vietnam, North Carolina, and even a daring rescue of stranded climbers on Mount Whitney. Moose’s incredible career is highlighted by his bravery and skill as a pilot, earning him a Distinguished Flying Cross and 28 Air Medals. He is a true legend in the aviation community, and we are honored to have him share his experiences with us. Don’t miss this unforgettable episode as we hear firsthand from Moose about his incredible adventures and the lessons he’s learned along the way!

https://rumble.com/v2rpzew-so-there-i-was-with-moose.html?mref=1af92d&mc=erjxj

Video of our raw recording session.

Audio podcast episode below.

I'll Get an A for Effort Episode 59 Jun 15, 2023

Join hosts Fig and RePete for a fantastic interview with Blackhawk pilot, KO, as he takes us on a thrilling ride through his remarkable military career. From his enlistment in the Marine Corps to his deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan as an Army H-65 Blackhawk pilot, KO shares challenges and moments of camaraderie, and resilience throughout his service. With heart-pumping stories of intense and dangerous situations, emotional aspects of serving in a war zone, and hilarious moments, this week’s episode is a must-listen. Get ready to laugh-out-loud and gain a deeper appreciation for the honor and service of this great American.

https://rumble.com/embed/v2p2zh0/?pub=1af92d

Our raw video recording session with KO

Audio podcast player below.

The Hammer of God Episode 58 Jun 08, 2023

In this interview with Navy Fighter pilot and Top Gun Instructor, Kemo, listeners are taken on a rollercoaster ride of emotions. Kemos energy is contagious as he shares his experiences of flying and training with the best of the best. He opens with this weeks ‘title story,’ a 1v1 Top Gun fight he won in spite of being in an inferior aircraft.

Sadly, the theme of killing livestock continues this week when they found themselves late for a target time and pressing to make time on target doesn’t end so well for a bovine that happened to live too close to NAS Fallon.

Later a tragic incident where his wingman, Bluto’s jet blew up next to him and a hydraulic failure that forced him to return to the boat with his RIO, Chunx. In retrospect, Kemo is glad he was ignorant of the extremis he was in.

His time flying with the ‘Taco Guard’ ended by proving the adage, “If you’re not having fun, you’re doing it wrong!” Kemo’s stories are funny and tragic. He describes, “a knife fight in a phone booth” which is eerily similar to the vertical spiral captured in TG-II Maverick.

When he was still a young J-G he was surprised to learn he would fly the sortie with ‘CAG’ in his backseat, and verified the adage, ‘It’s better to be lucky than good!’ The show concludes with Kemo’s description of the outtakes from ‘Speed & Angels’ which he’s grateful didn’t gain wider appeal whilst the statute of limitations hadn’t expired. Kemo’s energy and storytelling make for an engaging and memorable show.

Special thanks to Jordan Harbinger for the Podcast Swap with this show!

https://rumble.com/embed/v2mdb98/?pub=1af92d

A Water Buffalo for Tam Ky Episode 57 Jun 01, 2023

In this episode, A Water Buffalo for Tam Ky, Gunny returns to share more incredible tales: Gunny recounts a humorous, yet impactful incident involving a screwed up lieutenant and the practical joke / unusual method used to teach him a lesson. Hear about “One Eye’s Last Mission,” a literal blind flight that testifies to incredible bravery in combat.

This week’s title comes from the misadventures during an attempt to replace a water buffalo that was killed in a nearby village. Disaster was narrowly averted when a quick thinking Marine saved the day, but unfortunately, not the water buffalo. The unpredictable nature of a 1500 pound beast on board a helicopter, resulted in an important lesson about how to transport large animals! Hint – it isn’t inside the chopper!

Gunny also shares a chilling close call with a sabotaging grenade that was found in the nick of time and his chance encounter with John McCain, revealing a less-known side of the senator. Personal stories include his roommate’s captivity in the “Hanoi Hilton,” his decision to leave and ultimately return to Harvard, and the two distinctly different welcome-home encounters he received back in the USA.

We close out talking about a heartwarming tradition of a ‘Jarhead Breakfast’ at Lou’s Restaurant, Hanover, NH. A potent mix of courage, humor, and humanity, Gunny’s narratives capture the essence of a Marine’s life.

Special Thanks to our sponsor, RobinsBirdBrainDesigns.com

https://rumble.com/v2o0gjc-so-there-i-was-with-gunny.html?mref=1af92d&mc=erjxj

Video of the recording session with “Gunny” available on our Rumble Channel

Beware the Duck Episode 56 May 25, 2023

Gunny joins Fig and RePete for an extraordinary episode. An H-34 pilot and Vietnam veteran, Gunny comes out of the blocks at full throttle and doesn’t stop for the entire hour. Riveting stories will keep you on the edge of your seat. From intense combat moments to profound reflections, Gunny shares his firsthand experiences. From the very first tale of “That’s My $#(@*# Rockets You Moron!” and the hilarious “He Wears His Wings Deep Inside” – Well, let’s just say you probably shouldn’t be driving while you listen to this without being prepared to pull over and catch your breath. Captivating anecdotes on engine failure, overloaded helicopters, and even a crazy encounter with communist monkeys. On Gunny’s last day in Vietnam he had two forced landings… and was willing to ride in a truck vice be flown out – find out why! Don’t miss this one! “Beware the Duck,” is a rollercoaster of remarkable stories from this remarkable veteran.

Special Thanks to Hello Fresh for sponsoring this show. Listen to get the link to get an amazing deal of 16 free meals and free shipping from America’s #1 Meal Kit.

https://rumble.com/v2o0gjc-so-there-i-was-with-gunny.html?mref=1af92d&mc=erjxj

Video of the recording session with “Gunny” available on our Rumble Channel

High Wire Episode 55 May 18, 2023

Imagine this: You’re faced with a heart-wrenching dilemma. Your employer threatens to fire you unless you compromise your own safety and fly without the essential oxygen you need and required by law… This harrowing predicament was a reality for this week’s guest when he was building flight time with the hopes of becoming an airline pilot some day.

Retired AA Captain and Author of the Thriller “High Wire,” Kam Majd takes us on an extraordinary journey through his life and career, revealing how he not only overcame this tense situation but also became a pilot in the first place. His odyssey spans across continents, from Iran to India, from the United Kingdom to the United States, and from flying small planes to commanding jumbo jets.

Prepare to be entertained as Kam shares some uproarious anecdotes from his flying career. Picture the scene as he ingeniously convinces a potential student to request a flight instructor with an unusual skill, cleverly positioning himself as the perfect fit for the job. He also recounts the comical tale of getting stuck in a Learjet cockpit, showcasing the unexpected challenges pilots can face. And who could resist the amusing stories of dealing with clueless passengers, reminding us that aviation is not just about soaring through the clouds but also navigating the quirks of human behavior.

Kam delves into his personal triumphs and challenges, including the surprising rejection he faced from American Airlines for a seemingly trivial reason, only to ultimately secure a coveted position with the prestigious airline. Unveiling the passion behind his pen, Kam discusses his book, High Wire, originally scheduled for release during the fateful week of 9/11. Discover the uncanny resemblance his novel bore to the tragic events, leading to its immediate removal from shelves. Listen as Kam reveals the inspiration behind his gripping work and provides an enticing glimpse into his upcoming thriller, Silent Voices.

This is an episode you simply cannot afford to miss. Join us as Kam Majd bares his soul, recounting a life teetering on the edge and the resilience that carried him through. Engage with his riveting stories, laugh along with his humor, and be captivated by his literary creations. So buckle up, for this episode will take you on a breathtaking journey through the skies, reminding us that sometimes the most incredible tales are forged in the crucible of adversity.

https://rumble.com/embed/v2jlo16/?pub=1af92d

Video of our recording session with Kam.

You Quit or You Move Forward Episode 54 May 11, 2023

Join us for an exciting episode of So There I Was, as we welcome Brian Shul, “Punchy,”: Fighter Pilot, “Sled Driver,” Author, and Photographer Extraordinaire to the show. He shares with us his incredible story of survival after being shot down in the jungles of Vietnam and how he went on to fly again, defying all odds.

Punchy’s journey from the A-7 to the A-10 and then to the famed SR-71 is nothing short of remarkable. Fortunately for us, he brought his camera along for the ride. Get ready to be amazed by the technical and physical beauty of the Blackbird, also known as the “Habu” or Pit-Viper.

But that’s not all. Punchy also talks about his books and how he makes wildlife and aviation accessible to all of us. Don’t miss out on this captivating episode that will leave you in awe of Punchy’s incredible life and achievements.

You can see some of his work on his Facebook page and buy his books at SledDriver.Com

https://rumble.com/v2lx0x6-you-quit-or-you-move-forward.html?mref=1af92d&mc=erjxj

Video of our recording session with Punchy.

Audio show below…

Burial at Sea… Not So Fast! Episode 53 May 04, 2023

On this episode of So There I Was, Slaf joins Fig and RePete to share some incredible stories from his time as a Marine and Air Guard pilot. From holding a burial at sea for a missing pilot who later turned up, to flying the notoriously challenging Cougar, Slaf’s experiences will keep you on the edge of your seat. He also sheds light on why the F-84 Thunderstreak was nicknamed the “Hog” and shares an unusual story about how he found out his son, who was also a Marine pilot, was born.

Get ready to be captivated by Slaf’s tales of adventure and adversity in the skies. His firsthand accounts of what it was like to fly some of the most iconic planes in aviation history will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the skill and bravery of pilots. Don’t miss out on this exciting episode of the podcast – it’s a must-listen for anyone who loves aviation or thrilling stories of human resilience.

https://rumble.com/v2j7t26-so-there-i-was-with-slaf.html?mref=1af92d&mc=erjxj

Raw video recording session above.

This week’s audio show below.

Fifty Thousand Feet & Nothing Running but My Watch Episode 52 Apr 27, 2023

This week enjoy a thrilling journey with Slaf (Sr.), NavCad, Marine Corps Aviator who flew the SNJ, T-28 Trojan, TV-2 (t-33) SeaStar, F9F2 Panther, F2H4 Banshee, F9F8 Cougar, F-84F Thunderstreak throughout his career.

You may remember Slaf from episode 50 who talked about his father being a Marine aviator. Well, he graciously joins us this week and next. Slaf takes us through his training days, where he flew the SNJ and T-28, and shares his experiences flying the Panther with VMFA-533 and F-84s with the Indiana Air Guard.

But that’s not all! Slaf deployed with the 6th Fleet on the last cruise of the USS Lake Champlain, the last straight deck carrier in service in the US Navy. He describes the differences between flying aboard a straight deck carrier versus a modern angle-deck carrier; in a word, terrifying!

Slaf also shares a harrowing tale of a lost pilot in his flight and how they narrowly avoided losing more planes as a result. However, this week’s episode title comes from a heart-stopping story he tells about taking his jet to 50,000 feet and flaming out both engines! Whoops!

As a special treat, we also get to wish Slaf Sr. a happy 89th birthday! This great American had a wonderful Marine Corps aviation career, and we are honored to have him share his experiences with us.

What If It Was Me? Episode 51 Apr 20, 2023

Marine, Author, American Hero: LtCol. W.R. Spicer USMC (ret) joins Fig & RePete this week. We delve into the extraordinary life of this Marine who has written a memoir that is nothing short of amazing. In his five books, “Sea Stories of a US Marine,” Spicer shares his incredible journey, from the unlikely event that changed the course of his life to his meeting and interactions with President Kennedy.

This is a slightly longer episode, but well worth the time as we hear everything from his enlistment to his days in flight school, to flying in Vietnam, being selected to fly Harriers and commanding a squadron.

Hear the firsthand account of how Spicer managed to muster the courage to face enemy fire and go into a hot LZ (Landing Zone) over and over again. The title of this week’s episode “What If It Was Me?” perfectly captures the essence of Spicer’s bravery and selflessness.

His books Sea Stories of a US Marine (5 book series) are a must-read. They’re well written, funny, poignant, compelling and offer a rare glimpse for anyone who wants to gain insight into the life of a US Marine who embodies the spirit of courage and sacrifice.

Why’s There a Hot Air Balloon in the Traffic Pattern? Episode 50 Apr 13, 2023

Take to the skies with the adrenaline-pumping story of SLAF’s adventures flying the iconic Harrier jump jet. In this gripping show, SLAF shares his journey from aspiring pilot to Harrier Instructor and offers valuable advice on perseverance and overcoming obstacles.

SLAF recounts for Fig & RePete some of the most heart-stopping moments of his career, including witnessing a fellow pilot eject from his Harrier not once but twice within 11 months. The question of whether the dangers of flying this aircraft were worth it for this pilot loomed large.

But it wasn’t just life-threatening incidents that made flying the Harrier a challenge. SLAF relays the intense training that AV-8 pilots underwent, learning to use the plane as a weapon in addition to the mental challenges of operating in the V/STOL envelope of flight.

The consequences of making mistakes in the cockpit became readily apparent on SLAF’s very first week in a gun squadron. A violation of the 500-foot safety bubble during dog-fight led to a mid-air collision which destroyed one airplane and severely damaged another. But rank had its privileges that day.

This week’s show culminates with the excitement of participating in air shows and a recognition that flying airplanes, particularly tactical jets, is a privilege few get to experience.

So buckle up and get ready to soar with this exciting tale of triumph, danger, and camaraderie in the high-flying world of Marine Attack aviation.

John Wayne in the Break, Woody Allen on the Ball Episode 49 Apr 06, 2023

Nightmare joins “co-horsts” Fig & RePete and reveals how he got his call sign in flight school. It stuck with him for the rest of his career; which is a good thing! Then he told us how and why he came to want to fly in the Marines and how he “impressed” his LSO when preparing for carrier qualification. Hence this week’s title!

Nightmare talks about the challenges of teaching VSTOL flying and how sometimes mistakes aren’t obvious. By having a student close his eyes and listen to the audio portion of the HUD tape, he was able to hear that he pulled the throttle too early during a landing, which caused them to abort the landing and try again.

You will be on the edge of your seat when you hear what happened when his engine flamed out (quit) while flying at 33,000 feet about 25 miles off the coast of NJ. Nightmare’s experience ejecting from the plane, feeling each vertebrae compress as the seat pushed him out and the plane doing something unexpected after he ejected are only part of this wild ride.

Cat Shots & Orgasms Mar 30, 2023

Buckle up and prepare for takeoff with Carrott, Fig, and RePete as they explore the incredible journey of Carrott becoming a Naval aviator. Carrott shares captivating stories of his time in flight school, instructing in the A-4 at NAS Meridian, and flying the S-3 Viking aboard the Nimitz. Hear how his flight jacket disappeared after a wild night of drinking with F-111 pilots; and yet kept popping back up over the next 35 years. Experience the heart-pumping moments of the first cruise that lost several airplanes but miraculously no lives.

The excitement doesn’t stop there! Carrott shares how members of the Israeli Cabinet were nearly bombed during their port visit to Haifa and how he dealt with fires on airliners during his civilian flying career. You won’t want to miss the hysterical tale of Carrott’s full bladder on a mission to locate a lost Russian TU-95 Bear. Brace yourself for an exhilarating episode filled with adventure and unforgettable moments. Tune in now and get ready to soar!

Dude, I Have Your Harrier Mar 23, 2023

This is our second show with Kaos. Come along as he tells us about the challenges of owning a Harrier and performing with it in airshows. Spoiler alert: It’s a little more involved than flying to the venue and performing the demo!

Up for some special bourbon? 700 Mile per Hour Bourbon raised a nice sum of money for charity, and there may be some left. You have to go get it yourself because it isn’t available outside of Maryland.

Having held the record for the world’s smallest rideable bicycle, Kaos took up the challenge to do the same thing with the world’s smallest jet… and boy; he isn’t kidding. The diminutive profile allows them to do some very unique things with the aircraft that can’t be done efficiently anywhere else.

He talks about one instance when the engine quit, and the pilot was forced to land ‘gear-up.’ Oddly enough, it was a very simple fix! The BD-5 jets are unique and are helping to make an interesting path forward for Nalls Aviation.

Carefully Check the Fuel Cell with a Torch Episode 46 Mar 16, 2023

Kaos, the only person to ever own his own Harrier jump-jet joins your favorite “co-horsts” Fig and RePete to talk about his early days in the Marine Corps, Flying the AV-8A for the first time, test pilot school and flying on the Italian and Spanish carriers with the ski jump ramps.

He also tells us about the time he dead-sticked a Harrier into Richmond, VA. (Hint – it can’t be done) and receiving an air medal for the save. As he tells it, there was some debate over whether an air medal or a court-martial was more appropriate!

For those who aren’t familiar, he is the only civilian to own and fly a Harrier! Strap in and listen fast. Kaos doesn’t let you catch your breath!

We close out with a brief dedication to our squadron-mate Bo Paschal, who unexpectedly passed last Friday. Prayers for his bride, Joan and his entire family.

4 MiG Kills, 1 Fight Mar 09, 2023

Meet Capt Royce Williams, USN (Ret) – Hear how he went out as part of a four-ship and soon found himself alone, in a fur-ball with 6 Russian MiG-15s.

When the smoke cleared and the shooting was over, Capt Williams brought his crippled F9F Panther back aboard the USS Oriskany and was sworn to secrecy.

The ONLY American to ever shoot down 4 enemy aircraft in the same fight wouldn’t be able to tell anyone about it for more than 50 years! The fight was classified Top Secret to keep it quiet that Russians were fighting against America in the Korean War.

When the Soviet Union broke up in 1992 documents revealed the truth behind the fight, including the names of the Russians he downed that fateful day in November of 1952. Royce Williams was awarded the Navy Cross on Jan 20, 2023 for his heroism that day.

Please write your senator and ask them to pass the resolution calling for the Medal of Honor for this American Hero.

120Kts, 10' Off the Ground & I was Bored Episode 44 Mar 02, 2023

Former Marine “Grunt” and current Army BlackHawk Pilot “CandyMan” takes us on a ride through the dust bowl that is Afghanistan. Hair-raising stories of taking fire, near mid-airs with other helicopters, and a C-17 are just a few of the adventures he talks about…

But what scared him most? Dust landings. Find out why, and what he did about it. You won’t be disappointed. This is a fun ride.

In another first, we have a transcript for this episode. For a link to the transcript of this episode, click here.

The Honeypot Mission Episode 43 Feb 23, 2023

Chaz comes back for another visit with us to tell more incredible stories of hijinks, excitement, fear, tragedy, terror and hilarity. He had an amazing career in the Navy and lived every minute to the fullest.

Hear how letting a non-aviator fly caused them to lose contact with their formation. Learn the difference between Cherubs and Angels – and why not knowing can be deadly! Find out how drunken Russian sailors inadvertently gave up some serious intel without realizing their mistake.

Chaz recounts much of his fantastic career and tells how it lead him to lead his life in service to others.

The audio was difficult for some of this show, but we pieced it together. Thanks for your patience.

I Crashed Every Time Episode 42 Feb 16, 2023

Single Engine, Single Seat Attack Pilot, Smytty, joins the show thi week to talk about some of the hijinks that most Marine Attack pilots will relate to immediately. Smytty flew the T-28 Trojan, A-4M, OA-4M, AV-8A and AV-8B in VMA-211, 214, and 331.

He tells of the wild times in West-Pac and the time in WTI when a classmate flew into the ground without ejecting and literally walked away from the crash. You read that correctly.

Come join us for a discussion of what many consider to be the ‘Golden Age’ of Marine Attack Aviation!

That's NOT a Tanker! Episode 41 Feb 09, 2023

Bo joins Fig & RePete to talk about what it takes to be a “RIO” – Radar Intercept Officer – in the F-14 Tomcat. He talks about training to become a tactical jet crew and the process to get there.

Bo tells of the time he spent on Wake Island after a particularly complex night emergency where the dominos kept falling and they were literally inches from disaster as their tail hook destroyed the Fresnel Lens (aka Meatball) on the aircraft carrier preventing them from coming aboard. Fortunately they were just close enough to Wake Island to divert there.

He describes how they lost aircraft and crewmen in the disastrous first two weeks of their second cruise. It’s truly a dangerous profession and we all know too many people who have paid the ultimate price serving this great nation.

He closes out talking about how close he came one night as they were joining on what they initially thought was the tanker aircraft – but it turned out to be something quite different and far more deadly had their ‘spidey-senses’ not kicked in!

You Can't Be Married Episode 40 Feb 02, 2023

Kemo joins Fig & RePete this week to tell how he decided to go into the Navy after finishing the first half of Marine Corps OCS because they offered him a seat in less than two months in flight school without needing a bachelor’s degree. That deal didn’t come without some, shall we say, “complications” though. It wasn’t until Kemo was already in the program that he realized how badly things could go if he didn’t succeed: Motivation!

Additionally, restrictions on his personal life added even more complications to the mix, but Kemo was not deterred. In fact he went on to fly the Tomcat in the same squadron as our previous guest, Nasty.

While that is a story in and of itself, Kemo performed well; so well in fact, he went on to become a Top Gun Adversary Pilot and Instructor. This put him in the cockpit for most of his career flying the F-5, F-16, and A-4 among other cool jets. Come give Kemo a listen and learn how he almost ruined his own day in the middle of a ‘roller’ fight!

Start With the End in Mind Episode 39 Jan 27, 2023

This is the second half of our show with Adm. Mike “Nasty” Manazir this week. We chat about his new book, Learn How to Lead to Win: 33 Powerful Stories and Leadership Lessons. Plain and simply put: This book should be mandatory reading for any prospective officer or executive. What’s more, it is a fun read that will give a leg up to anyone who wants to better connect with the people around them and make their organization perform better.

Don’t pass up the opportunity to learn the lessons from a master who breaks down leadership into real-world examples. You don’t need to spend 8 years at sea and 36 years on active duty. You only need a few hours of your time and a willingness to be thoroughly entertained.

Aside from being entertaining and captivating, this book puts leadership techniques into easy to understand, real-life examples that work. Adm. Manazir does more than talk theory here. He has walked the walk. He learned how to humble himself and follow. He perceived when to take command and ownership well above his station when he saw the need; and saved lives. He discovered the fear and loneliness of being responsible for thousands of lives and how to keep a cool head and trust the professionals on his team.

He accomplished so much in his career because of the deeply personal connections he created in his various assignments that motivated his people to give everything they had to make the team better. Most prophetically, he describes how a good leader is one who views his position as one of service and sacrifice rather than power and authority. What I wouldn’t have given to know these things as a 22 year-old 2d Lieutenant!

Learn How to Lead to Win Episode 38 Jan 26, 2023

In this first of two shows this week, we welcome back Adm. Mike Manazir “Nasty” to talk about his new book, Learn How to Lead to Win – 33 Powerful Stories and Leadership Lessons. You may recall two shows with him before – Here’s to Bug Roach Episode 17, and Best Job in the Galaxy Episode 18.

In this and tomorrow’s episode you will gain insight into the reason this man became a Fighter Squadron Commander, Executive Officer of a Large Deck Nuclear Carrier, Commanding Officer of the supply ship Sacramento and the USS Nimitz, and the Strike Group Commander as an Admiral aboard the USS Carl Vinson.

Listening to Nasty his genuine passion for the Sailors and Marines he led comes through loud and clear. His ability to connect with people and lead by example is only part of it. Throughout his book, it becomes clear that his approach to leadership was one of sacrifice and service rather than power and authority.

If you were the most junior Sailor in his command and he knew your name, it was NOT because you were in trouble; it was because he wanted to know more about you. He wanted to know your story and your challenges and strengths. By caring enough to know every member of his command Nasty elicited in people a genuine desire to perform their best and everyone reaped the benefits of a strong and battle-ready unit.

Laugh with us at the successes and failures that helped mold a world-class leader. This book should be mandatory reading for anyone who has others looking to them for answers. If only we’d known what is shared here; how much easier would all of our careers have been?

Today We're Flying Beer Can Width Episode 37 Jan 19, 2023

Come ride along with us and feel like you’re on the Blue Angels Team for the next hour. This is the last of five shows with Lawman. We recorded this in late fall, but in order not to put five shows in a row with the same guest, we held this in abeyance until now.

This is arguably the funniest of the shows with Lawman. He tells us about learning to fly the various maneuvers like the Fleur de L’is for the first time, “swapping paint” (i.e. the occasional mid-air collisions) between the Blue Angels, flying exchange shows with the Thunderbirds, how they map out a show at a new field, and the finest Sailors and Marines on the planet providing the best maintenance in the world.

Like a Couple Gorillas in Your Chest Episode 36 Jan 12, 2023

Panther checked in with us this week to talk about how he knew, before going to the Naval Academy, that he wasn’t interested in flying. After spending a few frosty nights in the woods of VA in January, he quickly reconsidered his flight options.

After flight school he flew more than 100 missions in Vietnam in the A-6 Intruder with VMA-(AW)-533. He describes that time in -533 as the best job he ever had; being a squadron pilot.

After returning from Vietnam, Panther went to Naval Test Pilot school and spent a couple years developing weapons delivery tables and flying other engineering testing profiles. It was from there he was selected to go to NASA. He spent 14 years there and flew in space on four missions.

His descriptions of the training and the missions are enlightening – come listen as he describes the preparation and the missions which include many details of the process involved in launching the Hubble Space Telescope. He talked about why a fifteen minute operation took more than an hour to complete and how close they came to losing Hubble before it even powered up.

Big brains and intense training saved the day!

Southwest Airlines 1380 ~ She Hit Me Episode 35 Jan 07, 2023

OAviators: Our Little Horror Story

In This Gripping Episode, We Delve Into The Harrowing Tale Of Aviators Our Little Horror Story That Unfolded During The Infamous Southwest Airlines 1380 Flight. Join Us As We Explore The Courage And Skill Displayed By The Crew In The Face Of Adversity.

The Story Of Southwest Airlines 1380 Is Not Just A Tale Of Survival But Also A Testament To The Resilience And Expertise Of The Crew. As The Aircraft Faced A Catastrophic Engine Failure, The Captain And First Officer Demonstrated Exceptional Airmanship, Bringing The Plane To Safety Against All Odds. This Episode Highlights The Critical Moments And Decisions That Defined This Aviators Our Little Horror Story.

Throughout The Video, We Also Touch Upon The Broader Theme Of Women In Aviation Story. The Captain’s Journey Is A Remarkable Example Of Breaking Barriers And Excelling In A Field Traditionally Dominated By Men. Her Story Is Not Only Inspiring But Also A Significant Part Of Aviation History.

In Addition To The Serious Moments, We Share Some Funny Aviation Stories That Provide A Lighter Perspective On The Challenges Faced By Aviators. These Anecdotes Remind Us That Humor Often Plays A Crucial Role In Dealing With High-Pressure Situations.

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🎬 Video Chapters
0:00:00
Introduction To Episode 35
0:05:24
Fleet Experiences And Instructors
0:10:48
Southwest Airlines Flight 1380
0:16:12
Master Aviators And Heroes
0:21:36
VAQ 34 And A7 Training
0:27:00
Overcoming Gender Bias
0:32:24
Sabotaged Bombs And Humor
0:37:48
Pink Bombs Prank
0:43:12
Handling Setbacks With Grace
0:48:36
Lessons From AOCS
0:54:00
Navigating Squadron Politics
0:59:24
Final Reflections And Gratitude
Conclusion

The Episode On Aviators Our Little Horror Story And The Events Surrounding Southwest Airlines 1380 Offers A Profound Insight Into The World Of Aviation. It Celebrates The Bravery And Skill Of Those Who Navigate The Skies, Ensuring The Safety Of Countless Passengers. This Is A Story Of Heroism, Resilience, And The Indomitable Spirit Of Aviators.

…

SouthwestAirlines1380 #AviatorsOurLittleHorrorStory #WomenInAviation #AviationStories #FlightSafety #AirDisaster #PilotHeroes #AviationHistory #EmergencyLanding #CabinCrew #AirlineSafety #AviationDocumentary #TrueStory #Survival #Aviation

Nerves of Steel Episode 34 Jan 06, 2023

We are joined by “Bonnie” who gained attention the hard way back in 2018 when she and her first officer saved the lives of 148 people after her Southwest Airlines 737 experienced an uncontained engine failure which shattered a window, fatally injuring a passenger.

Her book about that day and her life experiences which prepared her to to meet the challenges she faced that day is called Nerves of Steel. Be aware though, that Bonnie is not self-aggrandizing when she uses that title. It was coined when the EMT who examined her after the jet was safely on the ground who asked her how she could be so calm.

There is no more humble person than Bonnie. In this first of two shows with her (both to be released this week) she relates how she got into the Navy, became a flight instructor and got to the fleet where she was one of the first women to fly the F/A-18 Hornet in the US Navy. She talks about the pranks played on her and nearly having to eject just days before her wedding.

Come along with us and hear what an amazing and gracious lady Bonnie is – and hear some of what prepared her for the greatest aviation challenge of her life.

Which Kid Is Your Favorite Episode 33 Dec 29, 2022

This is the second show with Dos Gringos – Trip and Snooze joined us to talk more about their music, their experiences in combat and their latest project to help veteran performers and composers get a shot at a big break without having to quit their day job first! If you’d like to help out with this worthy cause, please visit them at Operation Encore.

This is the last show of the year! Thank you for making 2022 so much fun for us. We hope you had as much fun as we did. Look forward to some great shows coming up – A hero captain who saved a severely crippled airliner with 149 souls on board; an Astronaut, a final hour with Lawman and many many more! CHECK SIX!

They Lack Judgment Episode 32 Dec 22, 2022

This week, Dos Gringos join us for some discussion about their music and their flying careers in the F-16. It was fun to learn how they became the Dos Gringos and hearing about the “Highway of Tears.”

We also chatted about their time flying Southern Watch, Op Enduring Freedom, and Op Iraqi Freedom.

We hear some of their songs during the show and some of the back stories to them. This episode is not for the easily offended!

Don't Do Anything Stupid Episode 31 Dec 15, 2022

Our second hour with Coast Guard H-65 Pilot “Sticks” begins with a funny story about a wildly specific “target” for their Search & Rescue “SAR” mission. The things get real as he talks about 9-11 and how things went for them that week.

What we (and most people) would consider wildly dangerous is just another Wednesday afternoon for your Coast Guard aviators. They do things every day as a matter of course that most of us would take a hard-pass on every time. Thank God for their skill and courage.

Sticks describes how they almost went in the water at night – and it was so bad that the captain of the boat they were getting ready to rescue someone from called and asked if they were OK. It sounds like it was an impressive airshow!

Sticks talks CRM (Crew Resource Management) and we get to hear some actual communications between him and his rescue swimmer and flight mechanic. Then we close out talking about a very unusual water-craft while they were assisting with Security for the Miss America Pageant.

Big kudos and gratitude to Sticks for joining us and providing the art work on our web site. Thanks to Dave Hamilton at MacGeekGab for tech support and to Dos Gringos for the music. Thanks also to RobinsBirdBrainDesigns – our sponsor. Check Six!

Are You Sure It's Mine? Episode 30 Dec 08, 2022

Coast Guard pilot and medical professional, “Sticks,” joins us to talk about his path to a commission in the Coast Guard by way of the Merchant Marine Academy. He talks Leadership Training and some of the funny things that happened along the way; like losing his sword as the Regimental Executive Officer in his senior year – and totally gooning the drill commands – and how he recovered.

After a couple years in the fleet he was off to flight school. This week’s show title comes from a remark to his wife that came out wrong. He was totally focused on getting a clean bill of health for flight school when he got some bad news and some good news – and Fig and I took the opportunity to add, “it’s mine?” to bust his chops a little.

We spend some time talking about what it takes to get through API – Aviation PreFlight Indoctrination at NAS Pensacola; the training you must pass to get the opportunity to start flight school. There’s lots of cool aviation physiology covered this week.

We close out this week talking about getting through the primary phase and the “HT’s” and one of the friendships he made there. Ultimately he talks of the loss of his friend and fellow pilot, Dale Taylor. More details about this are in the book , NIGHT FLIGHT The Courage and Calling of a Coast Guard Pilot, by Dale’s widow, Teresa Taylor, and Mark Wyatt available on Amazon telling all about LCdr. Taylor.

Our second hour with Sticks will cover real-life rescue missions and some of the extreme danger Coast Guardsmen regularly face; and call it a Tuesday at the office!

Please Support Our Sponsor Robins Bird Brain Designs. And thanks also to Dos Gringos for the music!

He Left His Footprint on My Face Episode 29 Dec 01, 2022

We are proud to welcome our first helicopter pilot, “GT” this week: Capt. Wayne Tunick USN (ret) author of the book “American Quest” The book is a fun read and traces the career of a young man who had never considered the military as he serves his country and his fellow man.

GT had a successful career as a Navy Helicopter pilot who learned early on the seriousness of aviation in a crash that could have easily cost him his life and it changed the way he approached flying for the rest of his career. And, while everyone couldn’t experience exactly what he did, GT tells us how he demanded exacting standards of his fellow aviators so they could be ready to meet any challenge they faced – expectedly or unexpectedly in the airplane.

GT’s experiences range from incredible to terrifying – and how he was fortunate enough to be able to learn from his experience and pass that on to other pilots throughout his career – including two tours as a Squadron Commander.

Over the years GT came up with 18 Rules to live by. They are republished here:

COMMANDING OFFICER, HSL-44 AIRCREW POLICY

THIS IS A LIFE AND DEATH BUSINESS. DON’T DIE BECAUSE YOU WERE STUPID.
KNOW YOUR NATOPS-IT WILL SAVE YOUR LIFE.
KNOW YOUR TACTICS. YOU MUST KNOW HOW TO FIGHT WHEN CALLED UPON.
TRAIN HARD. THE REAL THING WILL BE EASIER.
DEVELOP STANDARD PRACTICES. DO THINGS THE SAME WAY. WHEN YOU GET RUSHED-YOU WILL STILL DO THEM THE SAME. BUT DON’T GET RUSHED.
NEVER HESITATE TO SPEAK UP OR IF NEEDED, TAKE CONTROL OF THE AIRCRAFT. IF YOU HESITATE YOU WILL DIE.
HAVE A BURNING DESIRE TO LEARN THE AIRCRAFT. INSTILL THAT DESIRE IN OTHERS.
NEVER STOP LEARNING.
PRACTICE RISK ASSESSMENT. ASK YOURSELF: “IS IT WORTH THE RISK?”
DO NOT CONFUSE A HOSTILE AREA WITH A WAR. THERE ARE HOSTILE AREAS ALL OVER THE WORLD.
OPERATIONAL NECESSITY RARELY, IF EVER, PRESENTS ITSELF DURING PEACETIME.
USE THE BOOK. CHECKLISTS, PREFLIGHTS, BRIEFS, AND DEBRIEFS REQUIRE DEDICATED EFFORT. NEVER GET COMPLACENT.
NEVER TAKE AN AIRCRAFT THAT DOESN’T “FEEL” RIGHT. NEVER GIVE IN TO PERCEIVED PRESSURE.
ERR TO CONSERVATISM. BETTER TO COME BACK AND FIGHT ANOTHER DAY.
USE YOUR CREW. IF YOU ARE THINKING IT. SAY IT. OTHERS ARE PROBABLY THINKING THE SAME THING.
AW’S ARE ONE THIRD OF THE CREW. MONITOR THE NAV TABLE, ASK QUESTIONS, DO NOT LET THE PILOTS KILL YOU.
YOU DON’T CRASH GOING UP. NIGHT DECENTS OVER WATER ARE THE MOST DANGEROUS THING WE DO. RESPECT THEM.
LEARN FROM YOUR MISTAKES. THEN NEVER REPEAT THEM!!!!

EXPERIENCE IS A TOUGH TEACHER, IT GIVES THE TEST FIRST AND THE LESSON AFTER. THE SH-60B HAS 3 FORECASTED CLASS “A” MISHAPS THIS FY. ARE YOU ONE OF THEM? THE ANSWER IS NO!!!

The Boss is HAM'N Episode 28 Nov 24, 2022

What’s the worst part about being a Blue Angel? Get the unbelievable answer here. And what’s the best part? Lawman says it’s completing a successful tour with the team. We say the corollary is the camaraderie that comes with professionals doing what appears to be impossible and making it look easy, all while holding each other to the highest standard, and of course tormenting each other relentlessly.

You will howl at some of the practical jokes played on Lawman his first year with the team. Hear that and other crazy adventures this week as well.

The show picks up where last week’s show left off. This week is a little disjointed due to the order in which the interviews were mixed and we hear some fleet adventures in here as well – but you won’t be disappointed.

Deep appreciation to Dos Gringos for the music and the MacGeekGab for the support that helped make this show possible. Thanks also to our sponsor, Robin’s Bird Brain Designs. Get amazing, custom Christmas and Holiday gifts this year now!

NEVER Talk to the Boss Again Episode 27 Nov 17, 2022

Our third show with Lawman is a fun one. He opens the show describing how embarrassed he felt living the good life in Qatar while getting combat pay – though he did have to go to Afghanistan to prevent the outbreak of violence between the Marines and the Air Force!

Then we back into how he was serving as the Full-Time Support (FTS) Officer for the Marine Reserve squadron in Willow Grove, PA. You will laugh out loud at the segment we call “An Approach Article Waiting to Happen” as Lawman tells about flying on a snowy night, unable to hear the pilot in the back seat, flying the second worst approach in the history of Naval Aviation; and then getting chewed-out because neither he nor the Major General in his back seat were qualified to fly that TA-4 that night!

Lawman then tells how he applied to the Blue Angels to stay in a flying job for his next tour. Despite the pressure from his competition and the Monitor (the Marine who assigns your next duty station) to pull his application and forget it – Lawman was chosen to be a Blue Angel.

Then the fun REALLY began! Whether it was pranks played on the FNG (Funny New Guy) or a steep learning curve, Lawman found out the hard way that initiative isn’t always worth the trouble. This week’s episode title was inspired when he tried to help the team and got yelled at on the radio for his efforts. No good deed goes unpunished!

Getting selected to be a Blue Angel may be the “easy part.” Once you’re there you have to perform. We close out with Lawman wondering if he made the wrong choice – riding on his first practice airshow with the Blues he wasn’t sure they would make it through their first maneuver!

Thanks this week goes out to “Sticks” for our new website logo. Check the pilot’s visor. If you don’t get it, go look up the Far Side cartoon from February 2, 1983! And thanks also to Dos Gringos for the music we use on So There I Was.

Keep an Eye Out for Me Episode 26 Nov 10, 2022

Fatty joins the show this week to talk about how he became a Guardsman – and the benefits thereof. He tells how plans went awry when the BRAC (Base Realignment and Closure Commission) got rid of his F-15 Squadron while he was in flight school and how he managed to adapt and overcome.

When he found himself in Afghanistan over Christmas of ~2010 Fatty found entertainment in providing roofies to his flight commander: You, dear listener, know that commander well! But they actually did some flying there as well – and you’ll learn about air-drops to resupply the troops in the field and how that works.

We close out with yet another amazing story of challenges overcome. Fatty’s journey from knowing he’d lost his ability to do what he loved to overcoming every hurdle in front of him will inspire others to persevere when all hope seems lost.

Music is again provided courtesy of Dos Gringos! Thank you! (NSFW)

Here's to Woody. The Last Worst Day Episode 25 Nov 03, 2022

In our second hour with Lawman, things get real. This episode is not entirely comprised of our usual light-hearted hijinks and buffoonery – though we throw some in for good measure. Lawman details months of training aboard the USS Nassau, and losing a squadron mate, Buick, during a night training sortie in the lead-up to Gulf War I.

Spending months aboard the boat before the war without going ashore was maddening. So much so that they literally prayed for a cause a divert to give an excuse to get Marines off the boat for a few days!

As the months dragged on with limited contact with the outside world, the Marines tried to keep their morale up. Lawman took some heat, but managed to strike a deal to keep the line-shack Marines happy.

Then the war kicked off, and they found themselves in the thick of it. With Anti-Aircraft missiles in the air, Lawman’s flight narrowly escaped disaster on their first combat sortie. On their first flight of the last day of the war, the Marine Aviators’ of VMA-331 luck ran out when one of their own was shot down.

Hope remained as evidence that the pilot got out of the doomed aircraft kept trickling in. Eventually Lawman found himself ashore in Saudi Arabia to identify the remains of his friend and fellow pilot, Reg Underwood, “Woody.”

Woody volunteered to be a Marine Pilot. He trained hard and was a Weapons and Tactics Instructor – one of the best who taught other Marines to use their jet effectively as a weapon. Woody was well-respected by his contemporaries and senior officers alike. He was a husband and a father to a daughter whom he would never meet. Woody’s sacrifice became their sacrifice too. Woody’s brother and sister still live in his home state of Kentucky, and his wife and daughter remain in North Carolina. Keep them in your thoughts and prayers please.

We are grateful to have known Woody and mourn his loss for ourselves and for his family. His life made the world a better place.

The music for this episode is courtesy of Dos Gringos – Last of the Breed. Thank you, Gents! Great stuff as always!

The Lieutenant Savoy Incident Episode 24 Oct 27, 2022

Lawman sat with us for more than 5 hours to discuss his unique career before becoming a Blue Angel; and how he got to fly almost every plane in the Marine Corps inventory in Afghanistan. We will break this into about five shows and likely intersperse other shows in between.

Lawman is a natural storyteller; he had us howling with laughter and choking up in despair. You’ll hear how his upbringing set him up for success in Officer Candidates’ School. And you’ll learn that growing up in the 60s, the son of a special forces father, was not for the faint-hearted. In upcoming episodes, we will dedicate shows to two Marines with whom Lawman served. And who gave the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country.

In this episode, hear about Lawman’s early career and how he almost got a much less desirable callsign. Hold your sides as he describes the unauthorized appropriation of a Navy staff car in Spain and how he held his breath waiting for the “shoe to drop” in the wake of their antics.

You’ll also hear how an innocent (and hilarious) practical joke almost cost him his Marine Corps career. Unfortunately, the only person who didn’t find it funny was the one who controlled his fitness report!

This show is the first of many with Lawman. You WON’T be disappointed!

Please also check out our sponsors’ page and get some ideas for custom, thoughtful Christmas, or other holiday gifts. Thank you to Dave Hamilton over at the MacGeekGab for his support and counsel on getting this show to you! Finally, this week you’ll note we’re using music from “Dos Gringos”; two Air Force Viper drivers who have written some fun and fantastic music which is definitely NOT safe for work! We hope to have the Dos Gringos, “Trip” and “Snooze,” on with us in an upcoming show soon!

Nowhere To Go But Up Episode 23 Oct 20, 2022

Double-L of the “Hollywood Guard” regales us with stories from Marine bootcamp to doing really dangerous things like fighting fires with an airplane… “More dangerous than combat.” When you are flying and you feel the heat of the fire it causes you to reconsider the intelligence of your life-choices.

Getting to Bagram Air Base, Double-L soon learned he was on the bottom of the Commanding General’s shit-list without even trying…. So he did something that was sure to impress him.

Oh – and when you’re under attack – it’s a bad idea to call home and tell that to mama.

Finally, hear how this week’s photo went from inception to reality!

**It's a Small World Episode 22** Oct 13, 2022
We are joined by Author, Viper & Phantom Driver, and exceptional story-teller, “Jedi” this week. Jedi tells of the adventures of flying the Phantom and the Viper in the Air National Guard.

What’s amazing this week is how a chance meeting in a Navy O-Club bar comes full circle almost 40 years later. And Jedi then relates another incident where he was accused of ‘buzzing’ a beach, that comes full circle when, by chance, he learns who really did it decades later!

Jedi is an author of a hilarious and poignant substack and the books Flying Between Heaven and Hell: Weathering Storms available on Amazon and a new book, The Angel of Christmas, due out the first week of November 2022.

We learn there’s more to life than flying, driving fast cars, drinking, and chasing women… Don’t miss this week’s show!

A Vicious Pack of Lieutenants Episode 21 Oct 06, 2022

This week we are joined by “Curly” of the VMA-231 Ace of Spades squadron. Curly closes the loop on some of the fun discussed in episode 15 – “Sir, Don’t Eat the Donuts” and other escapades of the LRF.

Curly also tells us about some of his 38 combat missions in Gulf War I and how he survived in spite of himself. He sheds light on the adrenalin flow and narrow focus experienced in early combat missions no matter how well-trained one may be. Then there are several other stories of hijinks, fun, and near tragedy relayed by this skilled raconteur.

This is our first sponsored show. If you need an idea for that perfect custom and thoughtful gift, reach out to Robin at RobinsBirdBrainDesigns.com Robin will make your gift-giving efforts this year appear thoughtful and unique!

Be sure to subscribe to this who in your favorite Podcatcher – use Apple Podcasts, iHeart, Spotify, Amazon Music etc!

The Eagle Was Grounded Episode 20 Sep 29, 2022

Another first for the show! This week “Father” joins Fig and Repete in the first Air Force pilot interview on So There I Was. Father flew the F-15 Eagle acquiring 3800+ hours and was the Squadron Commander in St. Louis, MO when he finished his career.

Father had the misfortune of being the witness to an accident so mystifying at the time the Air Force Grounded the entire fleet of Eagles world-wide. The good news is that Father’s wingman survived and went on to fly for a major US airline. Fortunately Father’s description of what happened helped expedite investigators’ ability to piece together what really happened.

You can see a video re-creation of the mishap here on Military.com Even the recreation doesn’t do justice to how improbable and wild this mishap was.

This is our longest show yet, but we think you’ll be entertained throughout. We were!

Semper Fi, Do or Die! Episode 19 Sep 22, 2022

This show is a little different than our others in that it isn’t directly about aviation. But, it IS about a right of passage most Naval Aviators had to go through before being commissioned as officers and starting flight school

We are joined by Marine Corps 1st Sgt Retired – “Gunny-Go” – A shortened version of his name. Many a Marine and Navy pilot in the 1980s were taught and guided by “Gunny-Go” and some still likely hear his voice in their nightmares today. If you recognize him and want to reach out to him he would love to hear from you.

Gunny-Go spent eight years on the drill field. He is a wealth of experience and has been a positive influence on thousands of Marines and Sailors. Thank you for your service, “Gunny-Go.”

Semper Fi. Do or Die!

Best Job in the Galaxy! Episode 18 Sep 15, 2022

This is the second half of our time with “Nasty;” the former Commanding Officer of VF-31, The USS Sacramento, The USS Nimitz and a Strike Group aboard the USS Eisenhower.

He tells of the time he ejected from an F-14 over the shark-infested waters of the Pacific. He describes why “Nuke-School” is hard – and the benefits thereof. And he tells us what the “Best Job in the Galaxy, HANDS-DOWN” is! Finally he tells of a different era of Naval Aviation when things were a little looser than they are today.

The leadership that Nasty exudes comes from all his experience which helped him grow into the type of leader people want to work for. We hope you enjoy hearing this show as much as we enjoyed making it.

The opening and closing sound bites are from the audiobook Deep Survival by Laurence Gonzales where he describes the carrier takeoff and landing brief to pilots on their first night carrier evolution. This is a fantastic read.

Here's to Bug Roach Episode 17 Sep 08, 2022

Here’s to Bug Roach! Cdr. Roach was a legendary LSO and mentor to our guest this week and next: Nasty. Hear why he was so legendary and the poignant event right before Nasty was presented the “Bug Roach Award” for the LSO of the year.

Nasty is the LSO who waived Yogi & Master aboard the Lincoln that fateful day in the summer of ’91 when Yogi came as close to ejecting from an airplane as humanly possible without actually doing it. (See episode 14) It goes without saying, Nasty’s perspective is just as chilling and tense as you can imagine.

While we use call-signs here on the podcast you will very quickly hear the gravitas Nasty brings to the table and understand why he is a pilot’s pilot and a leader men aspire to emulate. He exudes leadership and genuine down-to-earth likability.

Nasty Commanded a Fighter Squadron, was the Executive Officer of the Carl Vinson a Commanding Officer of the Support Ship, Sacramento; the USS Nimitz and a Strike Group Commander as an Admiral aboard the USS Eisenhower. In short, this man is a walking-talking living legend of Naval Aviation who spent about 10 years at sea in his 36+ year career. His love of naval aviation is clear and he share it with us today!

**True Lies Episode 16** Sep 01, 2022
Hear directly from two of the pilots who flew the Harriers you see in the 1994 Arnold Schwarzenegger / Jamie Lee Curtis hit movie True Lies. Director James Cameron had a clear idea of what he wanted. He took good care of our Marines who were there to support the filming and made sure they were treated well and had time with their families over the holidays.

Buggs and Moto join us to talk about their path into tactical aviation. They relate how they became Marine pilots and their experiences on deployments around the world.

See below for photos from the set and for the ‘player’ to listen here on the website.

Jamie Lee Curtis & Buggs

Arnold & MOTO

Harry Tasker about to borrow a Harrier

“Helen Tasker” on the march!

Is it real or a model? Look under the last photo for the answer… Photo #5

Buggs enjoying craft services!

Harrier on the pad

Tom Arnold & Arnold Sharzenegger

Marines on the boat with Jamie Lee Curtiss – watching them film the bridge ‘chase’ scene.

Moto on the boat

Jamie Lee Curtiss, unidentified Marine, MOTO and Buggs on the boat.

“borrowed” Harrier about to do a steep climb-away takeoff.

Buggs & Asia Landing on the set.

In the parking lot…

The ‘model’ on the rack. This is the “jet” in photo 5. Notice there’s no engine in these.

Sir, Don't Eat the Donuts Episode 15 Aug 25, 2022

Shiny joins us to tell how there wasn’t a Lieutenant’s Protective Association, but rather a Lieutenant’s Revolutionary Front that took action to get even with the senior officers in the squadron who were relentless in their hazing of all the new lieutenants.

He also recounts their time in Saudi Arabia and flying combat sorties in Gulf War I; getting sent to the training command because he was married to the CO’s daughter, and Flying the Night Attack Harrier with the VMA-214 Blacksheep Squadron.

Happy Birthday, Yogi! Episode 14 Aug 18, 2022

Yogi and Master join us this week to tell their first-hand account of one of the most terrifying landings on an aircraft carrier in Naval Aviation history. Period.

What started as a routine mission on Yogi’s birthday was supposed to end with Yogi becoming a “Centurion” as he got his 100th “trap” aboard an aircraft carrier. Instead, it turned into one of the most harrowing recoveries EVER conducted aboard a ship.

Master’s professional aviation skills, quick thinking, and thorough execution of procedures – some developed literally on the fly – in combination with “Nasty’s” calm demeanor and commanding presence of mind culminated in saving Yogi’s life.

We are privileged to welcome these two men to our show. What they did would not likely sell as a work of fiction because it is too unbelievable. Yet it happened. Listen as they recount in chilling detail how the failure of a small piece of metal almost cost them their lives. Hear how they adapt and overcome tremendous odds to bring a crippled jet aboard the USS Lincoln. Listen to actual radio communications between Master, the “Boss” and “Paddles.” Learn along with us what things went wrong and how improbable events actually helped save Yogi from further injury or death.

You can read more about it and see photos here on Yogi’s website.

Video of the landing is on military.com

It Was a Dark & Stormy Night Episode 13 Aug 11, 2022

This week we welcome F-14 Driver “Jake” who relates how he got to fly the Tomcat, losing a mutual friend, what the real Top Gun school is about, what it feels like to be alone at night in 60º water and 6 foot seas in a one man survival raft, and watching a rescue helicopter stop, look, and fly away.

Jake relays more of Fig’s adventures and why he was considered the ultimate ‘Liberty Risk’!

The Intro and Outtro to this episode are clips from Pilot Talk: Barely Air #1 – Hilarious stuff – Please go watch for further entertainment!

One Hook on the Wheel Episode 12 Aug 05, 2022

This is another very inspirational episode – a story of personal triumph in the face tragedy. OB Joins us to tell of his days as a line support guy at an FBO in his home town – fueling and towing light civils. He goes on to tell of his time as a Harrier pilot and how it was cut way too short.

But this isn’t a story of woe and defeat. OB’s perseverance and tenacity and force of spirit will serve as an inspiration to those who hear his fight for survival in the face of overwhelming odds. We believe you’ll also be inspired by how he has faced these challenges with grace. He puts it in perspective that it’s just the way things are.

His concern for Marines who didn’t survive as tactical pilots is clearly overriding any focus on himself. He is a friend, a gentleman and a Marine through-and-through.

We Were on a Mission from God Episode 11 Jul 28, 2022

Sheriff joins Fig and Repete to tell how his interest in aviation was initially sparked. Then he relays how it evolved from some wild adventures in light civil aircraft to his pursuit and success in becoming a Naval Flight Officer flying in military tactical jets. There is one specific story in light civil planes that was described then and now as: ‘We were on a mission from God!’ Sheriff recounts how he almost had to eject at the end of a weak catapult shot off the USS Abraham Lincoln and wondered, as he looked up, if he would be able to clear the antennas extended off the side of the USS Lincoln over his struggling jet.

Sheriff’s extensive knowledge of carrier operations and experiences in Naval Aviation are riveting. He describes the pranks played on each other and discusses an amazing tale of survival that is famous in the annals of Naval Aviation.

Be sure to listen all the way to the end of this show. Sheriff’s story is unique and inspiring. He has overcome challenges and succeeded where most would give up. I’m proud to call him my friend – and I believe you’ll be amazed at what this man has accomplished.

Fig-Dogs Now Being Served Episode 10 Jul 21, 2022

Fig and Repete recount their time in VMA-223 with Colonel Mitch Triplett. Col. Triplett passed away this week and the show is dedicated to him. The consummate Marine, Aviator, Leader; “Trip” will be missed by all and remembered fondly.

Some funny ATC interactions are recounted and then we lead into the prior-teased tale of the “Fig-Dog”. Not for the feint of heart, this really happened… and how it didn’t turn into a bigger ‘shit-storm’ figuratively – well – we can just count ourselves lucky!

If the end of this episode seems a little clipped it’s because in post show edit Repete had to fix some sound issues that occurred during recording, but nothing of importance got dropped.

Until Next Week: Check Six!

YeeHaw - Pester's Dead! Episode 9 Jul 14, 2022

This week’s show is dedicated to the memory of Retired Navy Captain James “Sinzy” Sinz. A former Commanding Officer of both Repete and this week’s guest, Pester, Sinzy was an exceptional leader who cared deeply about setting the example, providing guidance when needed, and helping his Sailors and Marines whenever he could. Capt Sinz’s obituary can be found here. Captain Sinz: Fair Winds and Following Seas, Sir. Rest well knowing you have made the world a better and safer place.

Pester joins Fig and Repete to tell how he became a Naval Aviator and the challenges of flying the F-14; particularly on and off the carrier at night. This week’s title comes from a play on words from the Top Gun Movie and the fact that the LSO (Landing Signal Officer) only saw one ‘chute when Pester and his RIO punched out.

Pester details going to AOCS, flight school, and selecting the Tomcat. He went to Miramar for the Replacement Air Group “RAG” and his fleet squadron. He also tells about why he has his callsign and raises the hair on the back of your neck as he tells how he and his RIO (Radar Intercept Officer) narrowly escaped a doomed Tomcat in the night landing pattern and earned their ‘Martin-Baker’ ties and silkworms. Martin-Baker is the manufacturer of the ejection seats used in the F-14.

Then Pester and Fig got into some serious ball-busting before we wrapped up this week’s show!

Big Beaver Up & Ready Episode 8 Jul 07, 2022

Spaz joins Fig & Repete to tell of his time with the VMA-331 Bumble Bees before the squadron was “flamed-out” (Decommissioned); some of his time in 223; and what happened to cause him to return a Harrier to the tax-payers in many thousands of pieces.

Spaz has some great stories to share and is not shy about doing so. Not always a patient man, he describes himself as caffeinated at birth, but much calmer today. He and his fellow pilots took matters into their own hands to earn respect and watch out for one another.

He will “Be Back” for another show soon as we couldn’t fit it all in to a single hour.

4-Wheelin' & Fires & Snakes, Oh My! Episode 7 Jun 30, 2022

This is the second half of our interview with Chaz – Navy S-3 Pilot and now Retired from the majors. Chaz has had an amazing career and is a raconteur extraordinaire! From hilarious to tragic and everything in between.

Enjoy the show and please write us with any comments and questions at Fig@SoThereIWas.us or Repete@SoThereIWas.us.

Sounds Like the Beginning of a Dirty Joke: Episode 6 Jun 23, 2022

Chaz joins Fig & Repete to tell of his adventures as the child of a Pennsylvania Railroad engineer; learning to fly and making life decisions based on recruitment posters!

Now retired from the majors, Chaz is a font of aviation lore. We spent a little less than two hours together and realized we were only about half-way through, at best. This interview is split into two shows – the first half begins here.

Harrier: 1 - Nine-Point Buck: Zero Episode 5 Jun 16, 2022

Luke Joins hosts Fig & Repete to talk about his journey from the midwest to the Naval Academy. He tells how he became a Marine heavy helicopter pilot and Harrier pilot. He recounts a couple of brushes with disaster and how he avoided jumping out of a Harrier right before leaving active duty. There is a saying in aviation: It’s better to be lucky than good. But when your luck runs out, you’d better be good! Luke was both!

I Shoulda Been Thrown In Jail 35 Years Ago Episode 4 Jun 09, 2022

Sinbad joins hosts Fig & Repete to recount flying low and fast; terrorizing livestock and breaking glass. But it was a good enough show to get him a ‘free pass’ from the local highway patrol 35 years later! Going ‘green’ on a maintenance check flight gets a new meaning!

Two's Off - Winchester! Episode 3 Jun 05, 2022

Join Fig & Repete as they welcome “Auto” for more fun aviation stories. The real story behind Auto’s callsign. There’s a saying in aviation about landing gear up: There are those who have and those who will. In this episode there’s a story about one who . . . did.

We Weren't Naked ALL the Time! Episode 2 May 25, 2022

Join hosts Fig & Repete as they welcome Sleeper to expound on his callsign and some of the other antics. More naked stories crop up. You can’t make this stuff up!

So there I was... Callsigns and Other $#¡+ - Show #1 May 19, 2022

So there I was… It’s how every great aviation tale begins. Join Fig and Repete – two former Harrier pilots as they kick off the show that will tell funny, harrowing, tragic and incredible stories in aviation. This first episode is more of a ‘get to know us’ show and was done to iron out some kinks in the process of getting underway. It is posted in its entirety, warts and all. We talk about how we met; some great and not-so-great callsigns (this topic went south fast!), the upcoming release of Top Gun Maverick and how we’re privileged to be aviators who have been blessed to be flying this long. Future shows will include professional aviators who have seen and done amazing things. Welcome aboard. Buckle up and enjoy the ride.

Show Trailer May 17, 2022

Lawman describes how no good deed goes unpunished his first time flying a Blue Angel jet!

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