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The Phantom to 'Hog Blog

Journal of the Air Force Historical Foundation book review

Journal of the Air Force Historical Foundation book review

I’ve had lots of great reviews of Phantom to Warthog since it was published in October of 2020. I’m grateful for each and every one of them (except for a handful of trolls), but in January 2023 the Air Force Historical Society requested a copy to be reviewed in their Fall edition. I asked my… Continue reading

TRUST

TRUST

I recently engaged in a social media discussion started by a former fighter aircraft mechanic. He was justfiably proud of his contributions and received a number of supportive comments on the string. I was reminded of a passage in the book that paid homage to the legions of professionals who make it possible for people… Continue reading

UNWELCOME ARMOR AND MOBILE URINALS—TALES OF POOPY SUITS AND PIDDLE PACKS

UNWELCOME ARMOR AND MOBILE URINALS—TALES OF POOPY SUITS AND PIDDLE PACKS

Remember when you were a kid—7 or 8 years old? I struggle to do so, but there are a few incidents I can’t forget. If you lived in a cold climate (and, as an Air Force BRAT I did—from time to time), you’ll remember your mother preparing you to venture out into the snow-covered environment… Continue reading

Live Q & A: Keeping Me On My Toes

Live Q & A: Keeping Me On My Toes

Talking about something I loved doing is easy. Responding to questions from interested folks on camera takes it to a whole different level. Last night (very late–to catch the Stateside Prime Time audience) I linked up with C W Lemoine–‘Mover’ — for a round of spontaneous grilling about my career, my book, and what I… Continue reading

Formation with the Navy

Formation with the Navy

Ed (Boris) Beakley contacted me recently and asked if I would provide an excerpt of my book, From Phantom to Warthog for inclusion in his excellent website, Remembered Sky. The focus was my transition from F-4 to A-10 and the different approaches taken by the Navy and the Air Force in categorizing roles and pilots… Continue reading

Binge Watching

Binge Watching

Tired of watching Detectives, Spies, Alien Creatures, Cowboys, Zombies, Steamy Sex Scenes and Bad Language during lockdown? Here’s another option: A crusty old fart talking about fighter pilots, fighters and a culture that once existed in the Air Force many years ago. You won’t find these films competing for Oscars, BAFTAs or anything else–and they… Continue reading

Smithsonian Air & Space Magazine

Smithsonian Air & Space Magazine

I recently did an online interview with the prestigious Smithsonian Air & Space Magazine. The short (print) version has been originally published in the April/May 2021 issue of the magazine and I’m providing a page photo here. The full online interview has just gone live and here’s an update. Enjoy! https://www.airspacemag.com/military-aviation/phantoms-and-warthogs-180977298/ Continue reading

Hog Log—The Fighter Pilot’s Unexpurgated Journal

Hog Log—The Fighter Pilot’s Unexpurgated Journal

 My Blog gives me an opportunity to rekindle memories of days gone by and highlight, at least for the moment, certain vestiges of the trade that have long since disappeared. My last foray into better times was a virtual visit to that hallowed institution, the Stag Bar. Today, for those of you who are old… Continue reading

400 Reviews–Milestone!

400 Reviews–Milestone!

Today I’m honored to announce a milestone: 400 Amazon Global Reviews of my book ‘From Phantom to Warthog.’ Here are my thoughts on the importance of reviewing the books you read:   OK, now I’ve written my book, Pen & Sword have published it, printed it and distributed it, and you, my friend, have purchased… Continue reading

CHRISTMAS HELP

CHRISTMAS HELP

In peacetime, as much as possible, the Air Force takes a few days off for Christmas. There are always exceptions: Aircrew, maintenance troops, and loads of other supporting personnel are on alert or fulfilling other duties around the world and these commitments recognize no holidays. Nevertheless, most Air Force folks, like their civilian counterparts have… Continue reading