Motivational Video

Found this well done (and humorous) video on YouTube. It provides a superb overview of what I’ll be up to for the next seven months or so. Check it out!

Snowball Express

Last night I had my last Cockpit Procedures Trainer (CPT) event. CPTs are a replica of the cockpit that allow an instructor to manipulate the various gauges and caution lights to simulate both in-flight and ground emergencies. The events also teach cockpit layout, use of checklists, emergency, and radio communication procedures. In fact, that’s me in the photo getting ready to perform a (simulated) engine start. If I remember correctly, things didn’t go so well and ended in an engine fire. Don’t worry: it’s all part of the learning process that makes some of the best pilots in the world. Just between you, me, and the vastness of the Internet, I’d much rather practice a malfunction like that in a simulator than have it happen on my first flight in the helicopter!

Earlier this morning I was part of a group of military members and veterans (including the Blue Angels) that participated in the sendoff of local families involved in Snowball Express from Pensacola Regional Airport. In case you’re unfamiliar, the group supports families of fallen U.S. military members by organizing all-expense paid events across the country. This year 2,000 children and surviving spouses from all over America are heading to Disneyland in Southern California. I learned early on that the military is one big family, and this organization is a great extension of that premise. To learn more about Snowball Express, visit their website at: http://www.snowballexpress.org

My new sled...

Here are a few pictures of the TH-57B Sea Ranger (more commonly known as a Bell 206 Jet Ranger) that I will be learning to hover and perform basic maneuvers in. If you’re thinking it looks a little something like the helicopter your local police or news station flies, that’s because it probably does! According to the manufacturer’s website, the Bell 206 Jet Ranger is "the most popular and safest turbine helicopter ever built."

I can’t wait to strap one on and go flying, but I’ve still got a few more weeks of “ground school” and several simulator events to complete. I checked in to Helicopter Training Squadron Eight (HT-8), the “Eightballers,” a little over two weeks ago, and they've been keeping me busy learning aircraft systems, emergency, and operating procedures. This week I’ll be learning the aerodynamic theory behind how helicopters actually fly. I'll have to get back to you on that, but I understand that Chuck Norris is somehow involved!