Dispatches

Fighter Pilot Rule #8: Expect the Unexpected

The unexpected that is anticipated is a contradiction but aviators know its importance.

On a day of such crappy weather -- even the seagulls stayed grounded on the grass between the runways -- Colonel Sullivan turned for takeoff from Runway 7 at MCAS El Toro. Pushing forward the throttle and kicking in the afterburner, he lifted off from the surly bonds of earth into a flock of seagulls startled by the decibels of an F-4 turbine.

Twice bitten, but not shy

By Nancy Yockey Bonar

Author’s note: This is about one local radio talk show host. It’s not a glittering generality for all radio hosts/commentators.

Knock me over with a feather! As a lightweight history buff, I’m admitting: I hadn’t been fully aware of more than the first stanza of The National Anthem/The Star-Spangled Banner.

Palm to palm, Harpo and Lucy –

Twin clowns in squashed hats and pre-ColumboLondonFogs –

Stare in muted amazement at the living mirrors they have become.

Synchronized suspicion glides through four sun-spotted eyes

Like a pearl drifting in honey,

Then evolves into the delicate delight of Narcissistic recognition.

They wind themselves into tight springs,

Watching each other with enamored intensity,