In this episode, G. brings listeners along a remarkable journey from piloting the A-10 Warthog to operating drones in combat. One story that stands out is the transition to remotely piloted aircraft after a neck injury. When introduced to the world of RPAs, she faced the unique challenges of flying remotely and adapting to drone camera interfaces, something very different from a traditional cockpit. Her experience highlights the adaptability required in military aviation and the evolving role...

RePete and Fig are joined by “G,” a highly experienced pilot who instructed in both the T-37 and T-38, flew the A-10 Warthog (Thunderbolt), and operated the Reaper. She shares her remarkable journey into aviation. “G” recounts how she initially pursued the military without knowing much about it, joining Air Force ROTC and landing a pilot slot after what was initially thought to be a medical disqualification turned out to be a non-issue. Overcoming airsickness and various other challenges, “G”...

Bart shares the thrilling journey of his military service, beginning with a long flight from Japan to Saudi Arabia due to overflight restrictions. He humorously recalls the camaraderie and memorable moments with fellow officers during training. Upon arriving in Iraq, Bart’s experience takes an unexpected turn as he navigates logistical challenges, including a less-than-welcoming committee. The stakes heighten as Bart recounts his first combat missions, filled with adrenaline and...

Bart takes us through some gripping moments from his Marine Corps career, starting with his during a change of command in Iraq. He talks about using the advanced Targeting Pod, known as the Litening Pod. Bart shares stories of operating early versions of the Litening pod and Lasing targets for Hornets on bombing missions, highlighting the technological advancements of the time. He recounts taking command of the 542 squadron in the desert and the challenges of leadership, explaining how...

In this episode, we speak with Bart, a retired two-star general and Harrier pilot, as he shares his incredible journey from discovering his passion for aviation through ROTC to his experiences in the Gulf War, where he was shot down and taken prisoner. Bart recounts humorous anecdotes from flight school, the challenges of flying Harriers, and the camaraderie of military life. He reflects on the impact of his service, advocacy for aviation advancements, and his transition to civilian life....

This week on So There I Was, we continue our conversation with retired Marine Colonel and aviator extraordinaire, Baron. He shares how his career progressed after his initial experiences in the Iranian desert, covering his involvement in the development of the Marine Corps Weapons and Tactics Instructor program. Baron recounts his journey back to Yuma, where he eventually became the commanding officer of HMM-361. He also discusses his time as the V-22 Osprey program manager and the challenges...

Baron joins us to tell of a harrowing story of survival during his first tour in Vietnam. After an engine exploded mid-flight, shrapnel tore through the aircraft, leaving the crew struggling to maintain altitude. With one engine failing and the other insufficient to keep them airborne, they made an emergency landing at Camp Eagle, narrowly avoiding disaster. The episode then explores how this veteran’s career in aviation began in high school, leading to an unexpected detour with the Marine...

Dominique Prinet, author and legendary bush pilot, recounts his harrowing experiences navigating the remote and unforgiving Canadian Arctic. Born in France just prior to World War II, Prinet’s passion for aviation began as a child watching aerial dogfights overhead. He shares captivating stories of his bush flying career, where he faced life-threatening situations, including flying overloaded planes, navigating without reliable instruments near the North Pole, and surviving plane crashes in...

We’re thrilled to have Beef join us to share his incredible journey. From his formative days at Annapolis, where his roommate ‘Swede’ (featured in episode 115) introduced him to his sister, to his passion for motocross racing, and his impressive flying career with the S-3 and the Hornet. We’ll also dive into his experience as the Commanding Officer of the Blue Angels. This motivational speaker has some fantastic stories to tell. Enjoy! Threshhold Braking Officer & A...

This week features guest S.A.M., a Marine F-18 pilot with an impressive and unconventional career. 'Sam' shares stories from his time in the Marine Corps, including his journey from having a ground contract to aviator; the unexpected challenges of military aviation; and a memorable deployment during Operation Iraqi Freedom. He discusses the intricacies of flying combat missions, the challenges of carrier operations, and his eventual transition from an NFO to a pilot. The episode is filled...

We're Baaack! So There I Was—the podcast where the stories are real, and sometimes, the lessons come from unlikely sources. Like this week’s gem: ever been told that even a monkey could do your job? Our guest, LoJack, sure has. When he was scrambling to get his private pilot’s license in just two months, his flight instructor looked him dead in the eye and said, “I could teach a monkey to fly in two months!” And that’s where it all began. From humble (and hilarious) beginnings to near-World...

So There I Was - It’s how ALL Great Aviation Tales Begin… This is a replay of episode 28: The Boss is HAM’N - Listen to Lawman and learn what it’s like to be a Blue Angel - from the camaraderie to the pranks they played on each other to the unbelievably close bonds they formed as they trusted each other with their very lives multiple times daily for years. Find out what ‘HAM’N’ means and why it’s important to do!

So There I Was - It’s how ALL Great Aviation Tales Begin… This is episode 119. This is a replay of episode 64 - You’re Going to Have to Talk Me Out. This tells the tale of how ‘One-Eye’ extricated himself and 10 other wounded Marines from a scalding hot LZ (Landing Zone) in Vietnam. Not only should he not have been able to fly, none of those Marines should have survived the bad situation they were in, but for the heroic actions of this Marine who knew his machine so well that he could...

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 clear communication between pilots and...

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 his passion for gliding, highlighting the...

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 service in the 1960s, providing an authentic slice of military life during...

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!

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 to tell the tale? Well, Paco's got a hair-raising story about a near-death experience in an F-5 that'll have you on the edge of...

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 hear these amazing and heart-warming tales of people who made history as Cory makes some of their history...

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 in a race he wasn't even in. Find out why he was grounded on his 1000th hour in the Hornet - and why he became the Supreme Commander of...

Th is Kemo's hat-trick show as we comes to tell us all about flying CAS (Hint - It's NOT about Close Air Support!)Flying Contract Air Services is a job most of us aren't aware exists - What a waste! And a myriad of other subjects... try 'n keep up!

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 and the intricacies of air traffic control, we...

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 realities of Air Traffic Control (ATC). Discover...

Join us on this week's episode where we sit down with Bill "The Weatherguy" Korbell, a man who’s forecasted everything from monsoons in Thailand to the less-than-perfect day for a presidential flight. Starting off his career in the sweltering heat of 1960s Thailand with the 8th Tactical Fighter Wing, Bill was the go-to meteorologist briefing for Operation Bolo, which aimed to outsmart the nimble NV MiG 21s that were giving our bombers a hard time. But as winds do, they shifted...