Wednesday, December 15, 2021
Dearest Christopher, You have taught me so much in this life. I've been so stuck in my grief it has taken me nearly a year to find words to offer you in tribute-something that will do you justice. Honestly, it's an impossible task; words from someone else will have to suffice. Though it's been just shy of a year without you, you are anything but forgotten. I think of you every day. I miss you terribly, friend. You once told me, "there are two kinds of pilots: old pilots, and bold pilots…but never old, bold, pilots." HA. Friend, it hurts so much to know I'll never get to see you prove that old favorite WRONG. However, someone else told me recently that while this old adage proves to be mostly accurate, the two types of pilots that actually make up our aviation world are much more fascinating….I was told, "There are only two kinds of pilots to be aware of out there: first, the pilot who will declare an emergency out of a bad magneto check. Second, the pilot who, upon losing a wing, will request a lower altitude." What an honor it is to have spent time in the cockpit with you, the second kind. It is an honor to have known you. But my dear friend, know that losing you has been the single most profound loss of my adult life. I owe you a debt which I can never repay in this lifetime. I pray to meet you when I reach the next one and see your perfect face. Semper Fidelis, Semper Vigil. Jack
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