INTRODUCTION

Colonel Steve Ladd, DFC, MSc, BSc was a career USAF officer, fighter pilot and commander for 28 years. During his career, he amassed over 4400 hours’ flying time, equally split between the F-4 Phantom and the A-10 Warthog. His Phantom credential includes over 400 hours (204 missions) of combat experience over North and South Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia.

Since retirement from the USAF he has been employed as a CAA Aerodrome inspector, Operations Director of Cardiff International Airport, Fast Jet Curriculum Development Lead for Ascent Flight Training, Ltd., and adjunct Professor of Aviation Science and Management at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Colonel Ladd and his wife of 50 years live in Bristol, England.

   
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Absorbing analysis of fighter pilots, their culture and ethos presented by a long-standing member of the fraternity. 

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Photo credits: Gallery Photo 1 (F-4 and A-10): ‘Original painting by Geoff Pleasance’
Gallery Photo 2 (Blake’s F-4): ‘Original painting by Blake Morrison, Editor, USAF Fighter Weapons Review.
Gallery photo 4 (Hog with flares) ‘Photo by Matt Ellis’