Get ready to soar with laughter in our chat with Sluggo, the ex-E-2C Hawkeye pilot with tales taller than a tail fin! Hear how a Naval Academy Midshipman's mom innocently developed a film roll, giving new meaning to “naval exposure.” Hear how he navigated Aviation Officer Candidate School on one good leg and a wing. Sluggo's not just full of high-flying stories but also some close shaves – like that time he played chicken with a hydraulic failure in the dead of night, danced with a ramp during a landing, and tamed a cocky student and went right back to work. Fasten your seatbelts, it's going to be a hilariously bumpy ride! Several E-2 Photos Courtesy of Brad Silcott - BDSAviationPhotography.Com https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hXOdqdpMPW0&t=2s

In the dance of skies, Chucker’s tale unfolds,Through starts and stops, his dream he holds.Years, like clouds, drifted in his way,Yet he seized his wings, come what may. Rating earned, he soared anew,To rotary wings, his path he drew.From flight, a story, a laugh, a thrill,to a moonshine raid to find a still. In an ugly plane, he danced on air,And a surprise solo, with flair to spare.To a friend, a callsign, a jest so bright,It's Make-a-wish, but he's alright. Don’t miss the tales, in laughter dressed,In Chucker’s journey, we’re truly blessed. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0KvwF3dtUao

Welcome Chris, whose flight tales we admire,A West Point grad, in Air Cav attire.In skies, his passion did conspire,'Army Training, Sir!' his spirited fire. At flight school, where challenges soar,He pushed flying bounds, then pushed some more.In cold Alaska's daunting door,Helicopter ops, survival lore. A tale of hovering, smart and true,From crash-bound paths, he skillfully flew.Took controls with a deft maneuver,Saving the day with his astute fervor. With wildlife encounters, memories vast,Each story a treasure, from first to last.Join us to hear this aviator's blast,In skies his stories are unsurpassed! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cV9F4e9Vc7U&t=10s

Join hosts Fig and RePete as they explore the remarkable life of "Jungle," a man whose experiences could fill an action-packed novel. From his beginnings in Navy ROTC to exhilarating missions piloting F-14Ds, Jungle's story is a thrilling ride of high-stakes and remarkable achievements. Discover his incredible non-stop transcontinental flight, demanding desert operations, and the tense moments of Operation Southern Watch. Jungle also reveals behind-the-scenes tales from his time at Miramar, including the allure of the Miramar O’Club on Wednesday nights in Southern California. Immerse yourself in the suspense of night-time aircraft launch and recovery. Experience the excitement of narrowly avoiding ejection multiple times. Understand how Jungle's motto, "Make them want to take you!" influenced single-seat pilots to appreciate the benefits of an additional crew member. This episode is more than a story; it's a gateway into the life of an aviation icon. Tune in for an unmissable journey! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hVo5YludxHI&t=7s

This week's episode delves into Sal's lifelong passion for aviation. It humorously touches on his military days when Drill Instructors refused to call him 'Marinello,' opting for 'Private Ello' instead, to avoid the word 'Marine' in his name! Sal recounts his time with the 3d LAAM Battalion (HAWK Missiles) as well as the pivotal moment of his first flight, underscoring the seriousness of his commitment to learning. A highlight this week is the discussion of 'Get-There-itis,' a mindset that can prove fatal in aviation. He shares an anecdote about a commercial student's unexpected surrender of the controls during a critical maneuver, revealing the unpredictability of instructing. Sal also shares an introduction to flight that he did when another student surprised him! He also relays the aero training with the renowned Patty Wagstaff, which inspired this week's title. He reflects on his first CFI Checkride which resulted in an initial failure that turned into a valuable lesson in life about persistence in the face of challenges. He concludes this week with a touching story of flying with his father, which he has documented in the Air Facts Journal. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KqB6AVznF6s Raw recording session of our time with Sal!

This week we're joined by Sticks who dives deep into his adventures with the Coast Guard's MH-65 "Tupper-Wolf", humorously described as "Airwolf meets Tupperware!" He recounts flying in challenging 'zero-zero' weather, the heartbreak of unsuccessful missions, and a unique rescue where not saving someone directly meant truly saving him. Hear about a man underestimating river currents with his car and Sticks' uproarious tale from the ER involving a particularly 'absent-minded' patient. Tune in for these stories and more. Hold the antlers!

This week's riveting episode of "So There I Was" podcast, is Episode 78, featuring the incredible "SeaBass." Originally turning away from the Marine Corps, SeaBass shockingly ended up retiring as a Marine LtCol with 22 years under his belt, but it wasn't handed to him... in fact once you hear how he got in the Marine Corps, you'll be as surprised as we were that he did get in; a life lesson in "Never take 'No' for an answer!" He regales listeners with hair-raising tales: imagine approaching a boat without any visibility or experiencing the sheer panic of losing control of a Harrier's engine at night. And then there's the heart-stopping moment of "Going in for Guns" on a hornet - an event that thankfully didn't have a tragic ending, but easily could have! Dive deep into this adrenaline-pumping journey and don't forget to share it with fellow thrill-seekers! Don't sit on the ejection handle! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vRfsrrkEgC8&list=PLXCCLXeDUs6y_W748OaDd86b5IkXszLIf

Dive into the next episode of "So There I Was" and find yourself entranced by the tales of legendary Marine Harrier pilot, "Sugar." Experience the thrilling moments of aviation as he recounts his vital role in the introduction of the AV-8A into the U.S. arsenal. Discover how Sugar's unique experiences on helicopter carriers and other aircraft shaped the trajectory of his career. Hear many amusing stories including how he managed to secure a unique 30-day leave before joining the Amphibious Warfare School. Then you'll want to explore his incredible journey through his five-book series "Sea Stories of a US Marine" that takes you from his initial enlistment to becoming a squadron commander. It's an episode filled with heart, humor, and high-flying adventure - not to be missed! Book 4 - Harrier H-34 Flown in Vietnam by LtCol Spicer LtCol Spicer in a Harrier Sea Stories of a US Marine - Command

LtCol. W.R. Spicer, "Sugar" a Marine who rose from the rank of Private to command an AV-8 Harrier Squadron returns to tell us more stories from his amazing aviation career. We talk of his impressive background to set the stage for why he was able to repeatedly accomplish successful demonstration of the concept of VSTOL aviation. There were many intense situations which he faced, such as landing with limited fuel in a spot that was never designed or approved for landing. He always put the success of the Harrier program first and it paid off in spades. We reflect on close calls during landings and share stories from Vietnam. We also talk about gear, flight training experiences, and the importance of communication and maintenance. Thank you, Colonel Spicer, for your service and sharing your time with us! AV-8A Flown by LtCol Spicer Zeus Fitting Book 4 - Harrier H-34 Flown in Vietnam by LtCol Spicer LtCol Spicer in a Harrier

This week on So There I Was, RePete is joined by guest Co-Horst, Sticks whilst Fig vacations in Italy. Dive deep into the exhilarating world of Naval aviation with Briggs, a seasoned EP-3 pilot. From the intensity of Cold War intelligence missions to the pulse-pounding experience of night carrier operations, Briggs shares gripping tales that will have you at the edge of your seat. Hear about emergency landings, engine failures, and the high stakes game of naval chess with the Soviets. But it's not all intense; there's humor and nostalgia too. Learn about an unforgettable European commercial shoot with Olympic runner Derek Redman, and hear stories from the AOCS days that still bring a smile. With additional insights into  harrowing helicopter deck landings, this episode promises a captivating blend of action, emotion, and nostalgia. Don't miss this thrilling ride into the skies of Cold War history! We spoke about the US Navy film 'Pressure Point' which prepares candidates for OCS during the show. You can see that by clicking this link. Some of the photos from Briggs are below - and the raw recording session on YouTube is below that! https://youtube.com/live/d9bTsdZ_iXY?feature=share

In this thrilling episode, we're joined by Fister, an elite Weapons and Tactics Instructor with an incredible story to share. Get ready to soar through the skies as he takes us on a pulse-pounding journey inside the cockpit of the AV-8B Harrier jump-jet. But that's not all! Fister was the last Commanding Officer of VMAT-203, the legendary squadron where aspiring Harrier pilots learn to master this formidable aircraft. Brace yourself for a rollercoaster of hijinks and hilarious anecdotes that'll have you on the edge of your seat... including the details of the time they once tried to land a Harrier with its gear up on a mattress! Spoiler alert: It DIDN'T go well! Don't miss out on this exhilarating episode, and be sure to SHARE this show with a friend—it's a wild ride you won't want to keep to yourself! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1iU31W2hfJQ&t=28s

Prepare for an exhilarating journey on this week's episode of So There I Was, aptly titled "156618, My Old War Horse." Listeners are in for a breathtaking adventure as they meet the remarkable "Hound," who takes center stage alongside hosts Fig and RePete. Hound's lifelong fascination with flight ignited in a small airplane, where he gazed upon his own house from the skies, setting the stage for a life of airborne intrigue. Hound's determination led him to the Naval Academy, his eyes fixed on becoming a carrier-based pilot. However, a twist of fate steered him away from the Marines when he uncovered the precarious nature of flight status within their ranks. Undaunted, he embarked on advanced jet training in Meridian, MS, ultimately choosing the RA-5C Vigilante—a Mach-2 photo reconnaissance jet—as his vessel of choice after completing flight school. The heart-stopping apex of Hound's narrative occurs as he finds himself virtually alone over the perilous skies of North Vietnam, facing an astonishing 11 SA-2 Surface-to-Air missiles, one of which strikes their aircraft. Through a combination of skill, unyielding determination, and a dash of incredible luck, Hound miraculously returns to the carrier. But Hound's odyssey doesn't conclude there. He regales us with tales of flying iconic aircraft like the A-4s, A-5's, F-4s, and F-14s, all while forsaking the allure of a desk job at the Pentagon. This enthralling episode is an absolute must-listen for aviation aficionados and history enthusiasts alike. Special thanks to our Patreon "Pilots!" But, as the saying goes, "Money isn't everything!" Don't miss your chance to contribute by leaving reviews at the bottom of the Apple Podcast App and sharing the show with two friends this week, ensuring that the excitement spreads far and wide! Sadly, She's been scrapped! The Old War Horse Fast Times! Fond Memories of Flying the "Vigi" Manning up before being called back to go to war! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hmVN8htYt6Y

We conclude our visit with Taco as he offers a thrilling account of his adventures; starting with recounting his visit to Iwo Jima on the 50th anniversary of the WWII battle, where he met survivors of the invasion force and explored the frozen-in-time caves and bunkers, providing a unique perspective on history. Taco also discusses other aviation experiences, sharing his regret over the unfortunate crash of his Cherokee after he sold it. He then touches on flying his 1929 Fleet bi-plane and its eventual sale to a friend in Australia. The episode takes a ghastly turn when Taco describes the most terrifying moment he's experienced in an aircraft, as he broke out of the clouds to a heart-stopping sight. This week's episode aptly takes its title from that nerve-wracking incident. As the show concludes, Taco shares an unbelievable yet true encounter with another aircraft, leaving us with a sense of wonder and amazement; How could this happen?! This episode promises a riveting journey through aviation tales that are nothing short of extraordinary. #AviationPodcast #AerialRefueling #KC-130Tanker https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sWmoJ261z_E&t=7s

Get ready for an episode that's going to take your aviation enthusiasm to new heights! In this episode, we're leaving the ground behind to soar through the incredible stories with our guest, Marine KC-130 Tanker pilot, Taco. This week we open with heartfelt messages from dedicated supporters and a nod to our new "Tanker Aircraft Commander Patron," Sal Marinello and his selfless dedication to all who serve(d). Then we dive headfirst into the thrilling world of Marine Corps aviation. But this episode isn't about us; it's about Taco's jaw-dropping experiences in the cockpit. From hair-raising intricate practical joke to caving in Okinawa, Taco's tales will keep you on the edge of your seat. Why did it have to be spiders? 🕷️😳 So, fasten your seatbelts, because you won't want to miss this epic journey  with Taco. After you've heard these incredible stories, you'll be itching to share this episode with your friends on social media. Trust us; this one's a true aviation adventure that deserves to be shared far and wide! #AviationAdventure #TallTalesWithTaco #PodcastShare https://youtube.com/live/sWmoJ261z_E They Were Going to Die Anyway! Episode 71

Soaring to New Heights with Scott Perdue of "FlyWire": An Episode You Can't Miss! This week we have an electrifying guest: Scott "Gunny" Perdue, the aviation mastermind behind the hit YouTube channel, "FlyWire". Get ready to strap in and embark on a thrilling ride through the skies of Gunny's experiences. From nail-biting encounters in the F-4 Phantom to the adrenaline-packed tales in the F-100 Fokker, this episode promises a captivating journey for all aviation enthusiasts. But the altitude doesn't drop there. As Gunny delves deep into his own airborne adventures, listeners are treated to heartfelt stories of a father's legacy, the exhilarating highs and nerve-wracking lows in the Marine Corps, and jaw-dropping tales from the cockpit. From witnessing the harrowing crash of a Harrier and then a Crash-Fire-Rescue truck to the edge-of-the-seat narrative of flying formation visual at night, this episode guarantees an aerial experience like no other. As the episode unfolds, we also dive into the world of aviation safety, the point of the FlyWire Channel - dissecting accidents and emphasizing the importance of situational awareness. Briefly discussed here are the challenges of high-altitude flying in a V-tail Bonanza to the myth-busting insights into spatial disorientation, there's a wealth of knowledge for both rookie pilots and seasoned aviators. Buckle up, spread the wings of your imagination, and take flight with this not-to-be-missed episode! https://youtube.com/live/0Dl5fC3Ga3c?feature=share Live Raw Recording Session...

As a special treat this week we are bringing you an episode from another podcast, The Compulsive Story Teller. Have you ever felt the pull of a compelling story? The kind that stays with you, long after it's been told? Meet Gregg LeFevre, a New Yorker whose storytelling is not just a passion, but a compulsion. With over 200 public art projects worldwide, including NYC’s expansive Library Walk, Gregg's work seamlessly blends historical narratives with artistic flair. His bronze reliefs and art pieces narrate forgotten events, from the African American burial ground at Foley Square to the Iowa City Literary Walk. But beyond the public spaces and the bronze, Gregg's heart lies in the art of personal storytelling. A practice honed from family gatherings, where tales were more than entertainment—they were bridges to connection. This lead to the birth of "The Compulsive Storyteller Podcast," a space where Gregg dives deep, sharing stories that have shaped his life. Stories that not only entertain but also find common ground in our diverse world. Curious? We're sharing an episode on our feed for you to get a taste of this exceptional show. Listen every Wednesday on Spotify or your favorite podcast platform. And for a visual treat of Gregg’s artistry, visit www.gregglefevre.com. Dive into the world of a master storyteller, and let's celebrate the stories that connect us all.

Doc-Doc joined hosts Fig & RePete for an intriguing episode. A former Navy flight surgeon in a Marine Harrier Squadron, Doc-Doc tells how he became a flight surgeon in spite of not having any previous pull towards aviation. Hear captivating stories of honor from the Black world famous "Black Sheep Squadron." And in the prologue, Fig talks up a veteran's outdoor adventure nonprofit outfit in Michigan providing services to Active, retired, veterans, first responders, blue and gold-star families! Our first military Flight Surgeon, explore the world of as seen by the Doc who worked to keep the squadron pilots flying. Near the end we wander into the subject of tattoos, their permanence, and removal methods. Engaging, informative, and entertaining – don't miss this episode! Night View Harrier Cockpit On a C-130 to the Philippines Digging up an ex-Harrier Digging up an ex-Harrier Digging up an ex-Harrier https://youtube.com/live/ZSAO10zD-1Q Live Recording Session...

Ready to Dive into an Adventure?** 🚁🎤 Hold onto your headphones, folks, because this episode is jam-packed with laughter, twists, and turns! Ever heard of an attorney who flies rescue helicopters and was once a suspect in a sledgehammer & Hello-Kitty-umbrella burglary? 😂🌂🔨 If you're scratching your head, you're not alone! 🚁 Deus, with a career more colorful than a Mardi Gras parade, spills the beans on his roller-coaster ride of a life. Imagine stepping into flight school, promised your dream station, with just *one tiny catch* - "Stay east of the Mississippi!" From jaw-dropping rescue missions post-Hurricane Katrina to being mistaken for a bizarre burglar, Deus offers an infectious mix of hilarity and heart.  🎙 And, as if that wasn’t enough, Sticks, another sky-soaring Coast Guard Pilot, and partner-in-crime (figuratively, of course!), hops in. Ready for a nostalgia trip? These two air veterans don't hold back, ribbing each other and sharing their most memorable sky-high shenanigans. ✨ Whether you're here for the thrills, the spills, or just for a darn good chuckle, this is *the* episode for you. Serious tales, served with a side of smiles. Don't miss out! 🎧🤩 Power Off Operations CG Ops Center NOLa Rotweillers On Helos! NOLa Under Water Real New Orleans Saints! Chem Plant on Fire HH-65 Dolphin Wow! Have Chain Saw Will Travel Mother & Child Water Treatment Plant Time Magazine Helmet, Wet Suit & Boots! https://youtu.be/Gz3FRBesAAw

Tune in to this week's episode of "So There I Was" as we navigate the skies with Juan Browne, the mastermind of the Blancolirio Channel on YouTube! Ever marveled at his gift for demystifying intricate topics? Curious about the origins of his channel's name? Dive into Juan's riveting tales, including the heart-stopping moment he found himself in an inverted flat spin, with no prior training on how to escape! From childhood dreams of aviation to facing dire aerial challenges, Juan weaves humor and expertise seamlessly. Whether you're an aviation aficionado or a lover of thrilling stories, this episode is a must-listen. Don't be left grounded – catch this flight of adventure! https://youtu.be/MIOQKvIuG2M

Intake brings listeners on a thrilling journey through his life. From his time as a squadron commander and Blue Angel solo pilot, to his daring work as a Hollywood stunt pilot for the movie Top Gun Maverick, Intake's experiences in the cockpit are nothing short of breathtaking. His tales of close calls, shenanigans, and the intense teamwork required to fly the F-18 paint a vivid picture of life in the sky. Beyond his aerial accomplishments, Intake's dedication to helping others shines through as he discusses his involvement with the Blue Angels Foundation. A passionate advocate for veterans, he emphasizes the importance of continuity of care and support in various areas, particularly during the often challenging transition to civilian life. In his inspiring book, "Full Throttle, from the Blue Angels to Hollywood Stunt Pilot" Intake shares personal stories and insights aimed at raising awareness about mental health and supporting the cause he holds dear. His sense of humor, wisdom, and commitment to service make this episode an engaging and inspiring listen. To get your copy of Full Throttle autographed by Intake, please send it to this address: Cdr Scott Kartvedt USN (ret) 26 Berthe Circle Colorado Springs, CO 80906 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jJvNbuwSEwk