There was always that moment of “contemplation” before a mission. Always. Briefings had been completed. Personal equipment checked. The pre-departure visit to the Men’s room. Occasionally, nervous banter in the step-van on the way to the jet; or sometimes we just sat in silence. Greeting the Crew Chief, checking the aircraft forms and the walk-around. Then up the ladder and into the jet – to strap in and conduct the cockpit preflight check. And after all of that; “contemplation.”
Those moments, no matter how brief, or how long, were when we had the opportunity to just sit and reflect upon the mission – or upon occasion, on other things. Often I would just silently sit there in the jet, lost in “contemplation;” present to the realization of just how blessed I was – to be doing what I always wanted to do as a kid!
Sure I miss the “yanking’ and banking,’ but more than that I miss just sitting there in the jet – watching the activity on the flight line and just contemplating…sometimes, reflecting…
thought you missed the ‘bounce and tilt’ more *Grins*