118th Fighter Squadron A-10 Warthog

Put the Thing on the Thing Episode 118

Bacchus, our first Warthog driver and retired CT ANG Brigadier General shared stories from his extensive career as an A-10 pilot, air traffic controller / supervisor and a major airline pilot. Learn about his combat deployments and the challenges and rewards of air traffic control, as well as his deep-rooted love for aviation. The conversation highlighted the intricacies of air traffic control, the camaraderie among controllers, and the importance of […]

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Scrabble in Front of His Sea Harrier

For Flying Outloud Episode 117

Named after Scrabble’s podcast, this week we feature a dynamic conversation with British Royal Navy Sea Harrier pilot, Scrabble. The episode blends humor, aviation tales, and insights into the life and experiences of a Royal Navy Harrier pilot. He shared stories from his aviation career, discussing the unique challenges and exhilarations of flying the Sea Harrier, including stories of engine an failure and a canopy shattering. He also touched on […]

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Wings of My Father Book Cover

Wings of My Father Episode 116

In this episode of “So There I Was,” we meet Messman, a former Navy P-3 Naval Flight Officer and a riveting storyteller with experiences that keep you on the edge of your seat. This episode features Messman’s harrowing and often humorous tales from his time as a naval flight officer and beyond. Right from the start, Messman’s vibrant personality and candid storytelling grip you. He shares gritty details from his […]

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Putting a tail on a Bear!

I’ll Kick Your Little Pilot @$$ Episode 115

Swede joins us to talk about his Naval Career from The Boat School (USNA) to flying in the Patrol Navy. Some Amazing and hilarious stories are in this week’s show throughout. Don’t miss hearing about his near bail-out of a T-34 or how he got his callsign! Strap in and don’t sit on the condition lever! Swede will keep us straight & level!

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Paco Pre-Flights an F-5

Accidental Fighter Pilot Episode 114

Hold on to your hats, because this week on So There I Was, we’ve got a guest who’s practically done it all. Fig and RePete are thrilled to welcome Paco to the cockpit as he takes us through his incredible journey from becoming a Navy Attack Pilot to soaring through the skies as a Navy Fighter Pilot. Ever wondered what it’s like to stare death in the face and live […]

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Earthrise

Is That a Trick Question? Episode 113

Cory Crowell, a former curator at the San Diego Air & Space Museum, joins us to share some of the many encounters he had with legends of history and aviation. From General Jimmy Doolittle to Neil Armstrong and even our friend from Episode 54, Brian Shul, Cory delivers the human side of these legendary aviators and his encounters with them during his 20 years at the museum. Join us to […]

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Spook and his squadron mates with an F/A-18 Hornet

It’s All Combat Episode 112

Spook joins us to talk about becoming a Marine pilot, Reuniting with Fig after 37 years, Flying the Hornet in the Marines and the Royal Australian Air Force. Find out why he chose the Marines over the Air Force and the Navy. Find out how he got his callsign. Learn that he has video proof that HE was the one to shoot down a drone tractor. Hear how he placed […]

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Dan Commuting to Work in the Back of a HMMWV

Pulled the Handle! Just Not Very Hard Episode 110

In this episode, we delve into our experiences in the Marine Corps and aviation tales, prompted by guest Dan of the excellent Danger Close Podcast. Subscribe to that show here: Danger Close Reflecting on how military service shaped us, we share stories of fallen comrades, challenges faced in emergencies, and the unique focus of the Danger Close podcast on war films. From Marine Corps values and leadership qualities to aviation missions […]

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Danger Close Podcast

We’re Not Ready You Idiot Episode 109

This week on “So There I Was,” join hosts Fig & RePete and special guest Dan from the “Danger Close Podcast” as they embark on a thrilling exploration of a Marine Air Traffic Controller’s life turned podcaster. Experience firsthand the intense challenges of boot camp and the critical responsibilities within an Air Traffic Control Tower where every decision is crucial. In this special collaboration episode, we delve into the gripping […]

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