Every profession has its lore. Teachers reminisce about the age of pencil sharpeners. Doctors of the day when patient records were contained between the ears. I've even listened-in as pizza makers describe a certain oven with such care and detail, I too wanted one of those thousand-pound granite-based behemoths.
But make no mistake about it—no profession (repeat) can equal the passion, devotion and deification between (hu)man and machine like aviation. Aviation is a Faith and each aircraft, a denomination*.
I'm really tempted to push the whole 'aviation is a religion' thing here but I won't because this particular F-4D is on holy ground of its own: it was the mount of the 523rd Tactical Fighter Squadron and my job is to bring it to life.
Over the next few weeks, we'll be opening her logbook to songs of praise and parables from those who know her best.
Lets go for a ride!
*I am confident that God is not offended by this statement as it is clear that flight is not only a Divine creation it is also a Calling and act of Devotion. In fact, I have heard no more fervent prayer or decisions of righteousness than in an aircraft. Especially during severe turbulence.
