This week’s show is dedicated to the memory of Retired Navy Captain James “Sinzy” Sinz. A former Commanding Officer of both Repete and this week’s guest, Pester, Sinzy was an exceptional leader who cared deeply about setting the example, providing guidance when needed, and helping his Sailors and Marines whenever he could. Capt Sinz’s obituary can be found here. Captain Sinz: Fair Winds and Following Seas, Sir. Rest well knowing you have made the world a better and safer place.
Pester joins Fig and Repete to tell how he became a Naval Aviator and the challenges of flying the F-14; particularly on and off the carrier at night. This week’s title comes from a play on words from the Top Gun Movie and the fact that the LSO (Landing Signal Officer) only saw one ‘chute when Pester and his RIO punched out.
Pester details going to AOCS, flight school, and selecting the Tomcat. He went to Miramar for the Replacement Air Group “RAG” and his fleet squadron. He also tells about why he has his callsign and raises the hair on the back of your neck as he tells how he and his RIO (Radar Intercept Officer) narrowly escaped a doomed Tomcat in the night landing pattern and earned their ‘Martin-Baker’ ties and silkworms. Martin-Baker is the manufacturer of the ejection seats used in the F-14.
Then Pester and Fig got into some serious ball-busting before we wrapped up this week’s show!
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