Meet a Real American Hero, Erik Sabiston, U.S. Army helicopter pilot and author of Dustoff 7-3!

I'm so excited and honored to introduce you to an extraordinary US Army helicopter pilot! I met Erik Sabiston via LinkedIn. This is not the first time, or last, I've met an awesome connection through that professional network site, which I'm a fan and actively use. Those who know me know I thrive in digitally connecting and building an engaged network, so it is not uncommon for me to not only make connections, but also build stronger relationships using it effectively. I see it as yet another tool to learn more information, share information, meet people I may not run into establishing new connections and keeping in touch with others who's path have gone to another zipcode, over time, myself included!:-) 

When I met Erik, he was in the midst of finishing his book, Dustoff 7-3, which is based on an incredible real life mission he flew and successfully accomplished with a very special team. I read about his Newsweek article and was inspired from the brief share about some of this teams accomplishments. The vibe I get from Erik, both in our communications and watching the Heroes Summit video of him and his crew, was a mix of professionalism, calmness, humbleness, and humor. I asked him if he'd be interested in being one of my Featured Pilot Spotlights on my aviation site/blog WingsConnect / Aviators Lounge blog. He expressed interest, but it wasn't the right time. Well, now it is the right time and he reached back out to me to let me know the interview was a go!!  I was very thrilled to gain insights and inspiration from Erik's responses and to share them you all.

I recently read Dustoff 7-3. If you enjoy a story of courage under extreme situations, dedication, and teamwork to pull off what could seem like the impossible for most, then snag a copy of this book. I recommend it. There are details at the end of the blog on where you can find a copy. In finishing his book recently, it gives me even greater pleasure to have this opportunity to virtually introduce to him! I hope you are as inspired by his responses and aviation pictures shared, as I was. Fasten your seatbelt and check out his responses!

Question 1: Tell me your Love at First Flight story and how you fell in love with aviation - where & when was your first flight? Also, what did you fly?

When I was a kid I spent much of my time with my grandparents.  A WWII vet, my grandfather was also an Army Aviator, until a bad crash in a B-25 cut his aviation career short.  He had aviation books in his home that I would pour over constantly.  I remember watching The Wings of Eagles with John Wayne, and it was like a spark.  I wanted to be an aviator more than anything as a kid.  My first flight was at age 14 on a C-9B Skytrain from Virginia to Florida when I was a Naval Sea Cadet.  I remember being completely terrified the entire time, yet determined that I would someday fly myself.  

Years later I became a UH-60 Blackhawk crewchief in the 101st Airborne.  Still petrified of heights, I loved the job and being part of a crew.  I would sit around in my free time reading every aviation magazine I could find.  One of my pilots Jason Jones noticed this and remarked that I seemed to love aviation more than any pilot in our unit.  I realized then that I would never be satisfied until I had the flight controls in my hands.

In 2007 I flew the TH-67 for the first time at Fort Rucker.  Flight school was tough for me.  I was much older than my peers and spent every waking moment in the books.  I knew this was my last chance to live my dream, and I was determined that nothing was going to derail me.  I selected UH-60s in 2008.  I wanted 60s because the mission was more diverse than any other airframe in the Army.

Question 2: What is the best advice you can give to fellow pilots?

When you have passengers fly like your loved ones are in the back; you are responsible for their lives.  Always study and train the maneuvers and tasks you know you're weak at.  FLY IFR!  For military aviators: a good instrument pilot is usually a good combat pilot.

Question 3: What is your favorite part of being involved in aviation?

Working with people and experiencing new things.  I meet people from every walk of life in the military and I get to snatch folks out of really bad places.  Nothing feels as good as knowing that in some small way you've made a difference.  I also love to travel and seeing the world.  Flying for my country has given me the opportunity to do that, and that's a blessing.

Question 4: What is the best eating spots you've found in your aviation travels?

Lamberts in Sikeston, MO., "Home of the Throwed Rolls!"  I also like the breakfast in Selma, AL.  I'm a foodie, so anywhere that has JP8 and barbecue is just fine with me!

Question 5: What are your favorite airports that you've flown into and why?

I love flying into Jack Edwards near Gulf Shores, AL.  It has an out of the way, beach kinda' feel to it and the folks are really friendly.  My favorite is one that I've never flown into it, but I loved visiting it as a kid... NAS Oceana.  So much great military hardware on the flight line, it kinda takes your breathe away!

Here are a few cool pictures, a glimpse into Erik's Life Adventures!

DANG DUDE! Now that's a cockpit!! A lot more going on than my 152!

Life Savers fly these choppers

He looks very happy with a kind heart.

Cool picture, Erik!

Ready to roll! This picture is aviation awesome! 

Faces of Heroes. The Real Fantastic Four. Check out the Newsweek Heroes Summit video below to learn more about each of these soldiers who risked their lives to accomplish an incredible mission. Each member received honors from the Army based on their actions on this mission. Snag a copy of Dustoff 7-3!

Erik at one of his book releases. His reviews are 5 out of 5 Stars!! Read Dustoff 7-3!

Check out the link below to order a copy of the book on Amazon! Such a big part of this book that really touched my heart and mind was the dedication the crew had to saving lives or being there to retrieve bodies of fallen soldiers. I sensed a fierceness to get the job done, perseverance and leave no one behind mentality. Very inspiring story of just how much this team went through and supported one another to accomplish what they did.

Every aviator has a great picture with their aircraft of choice. Erik, looking GREAT!!

Erik! Thank you so much for taking the time to share your responses and avi action pictures!! I really enjoyed getting to know you further through them and am excited to share your story. Your determination to achieve your goals, overcome challenges and excitement about the opportunities the Life of aviation has given is very inspiring. 

Each interview I have done is unique, very special and inspiring. Each person has different experiences and tips, but what I find is an underlying commonality in those who have found their love of flight. We are all extremely passionate and driven. I'm very grateful to have found in Aviation something so challenging, rewarding, and the opportunity to meet some of the most interesting souls in pilots. I have admiration for those who push past status quo, push themselves to achieve more, persevere even when others may not understand or support your drive or where you are headed. Another group that comes to mind with these characteristics, kicked up even more notches is Special Forces, but that'll be another blog post.:-)

Anyways, those who know me know I hold a special spot in my heart for our Troops, Real American Heroes. Erik and his crew are the kind of unsung heroes who put themselves in harms way with such an intense sense of duty, caring for those in need despite extreme challenges. I'm glad his book sheds light on the extraordinary accomplishments of this team. I found the story a glimpse into a fascinating world I won't see personally, very inspiring and leaves me with more gratitude on top of what I have for the unsung heroes in our Military! 

Growing up on military bases, I admired the strong sense of duty quality very much in many positive examples I saw. There was an above average sense of serving, not for fame and glory, but a sense of pride and community. I felt that same appreciation reading the actions of the troops in Dustoff 7-3. From the story, I took away a strong sense that each crew member brought important qualities and support, at different times and sometimes at the same time, resulting in a winning team dynamic that netted an exceptional mission accomplished.

Dustoff 7-3, the crew Erik was a part of, received the Army Aviation Association of America's top honor for their mission, featured in his book, that occurred in Kunar Providence Afghanistan in June 2011. This mission was named Air/Sea Rescue that year. All 4 crew members received a Metal of Valor. Sabiston, Bringloe, and Brodhead received the Distinguished Flying Cross, the highest award in aviation. Capps received the Air Medal of Valor.

Pick up a copy, read it and may you also be as inspired as I was that a crew as dedicated and giving their all exists. If I had someone I loved serving and they found themselves injured, I'd pray a crew like this would sweep them up out of harms way. 

http://www.amazon.com/Dustoff-7-3-Erik-Sabiston/dp/0989798364

In addition to reading the book, check out this cool video of them as part of Newsweek's Heroes Summit:

http://original.livestream.com/herosummit/video?clipId=pla_a7920dac-206d-4a00-8d84-950ce746b5ac

Get connected with him online to follow the latest:

http://www.eriksabiston.com/

Dustoff 7-3 (Facebook)

@ErikSabiston (Twitter)

Happy and Safe Flying, Always!

Emily 

http://www.wingsconnect.com/

@AeroEms or @ WingsConnect (Instagram /Twitter)

Here are additional links on media associated with the book and story of Dustoff 7-3:

http://www.feedyourneedtoread.com/contributor/erik-sabiston/

http://www.businessinsider.com/how-us-soldiers-saved-their-helicopter-2015-5

http://taskandpurpose.com/the-heartbreaking-story-behind-the-dustoff-7-3-rescues-in-afghanistan/

http://www.verticalmag.com/news/article/DUSTOFF73SavingLivesUnderFireinAfghanistan

http://www.verticalmag.com/news/article/QAwithErikSabistonUH60InstructorPilotAuthor

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/dustoff-7-3-erik-sabiston/1121664577?ean=9780989798365

http://www.amazon.com/Dustoff-7-3-Erik-Sabiston/dp/0989798364

http://original.livestream.com/herosummit/video?clipId=pla_a7920dac-206d-4a00-8d84-950ce746b5ac

http://www.warriorspublishing.com/?p=594

http://www.nhregister.com/arts-and-entertainment/20150517/milford-native-tells-of-brave-us-army-helicopter-mission-in-dustoff-7-3

http://www.dothaneagle.com/lifestyles/local/fort-rucker-instructor-pilot-recounts-decorated-mission-in-new-book/article_60ed4b60-fa8e-11e4-a83b-5ba5c3dfa790.html

http://www.stripes.com/news/special-reports/heroes/heroes-2013/i-didn-t-fly-with-my-own-two-arms-1.224801

http://www.newsweek.com/afghanistans-valley-death-medevac-teams-miracle-rescue-63779

http://www.wearethemighty.com/this-army-medic-saved-14-lives-with-a-broken-leg-while-under-fire-2015-05

http://www.businessinsider.com/this-army-medevac-pilot-rescued-more-than-a-dozen-soldiers-during-a-deadly-60-hour-mission-2012-5

http://taskandpurpose.com/unsung-heroes-this-army-medic-overcame-gunfire-and-a-broken-leg-to-save-14-soldiers/

http://www.insidebainbridge.com/2012/10/03/bainbridges-julia-bringloe-7th-woman-awarded-flying-cross-medal-amelia-earhart-was-the-1st/

http://www.c-span.org/person/?juliabringloe

http://www.punditreview.com/2012/06/sysk-sgt-julia-bringloe/

http://www.watertowndailytimes.com/article/20130129/NEWS03/701299857

http://www.usnews.com/news/articles/2013/08/08/afghan-medevacs-run-to-gunfire-explosions-to-rescue-injured-comrades

http://www.readperiodicals.com/201403/3265818431.html

http://archive.armytimes.com/article/20120423/NEWS/204230311/Black-Hawk-crew-honored-3-heroic-days

http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/opinion/freepress/story/2012/may/29/chattanooga-meet-julia-both-of-them/78925/

http://www.army.mil/article/87259/10th_CAB_aviators_receive_awards_for_valor/

https://twitter.com/eriksabiston

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dustoff-7-3/538460959617404

Media and Author Endorsements:

"Absolutely incredible." - Charlie Rose, CBS News

"This story is extraordinary!" - Martha Raddatz, ABC News

"You guys are crazy!" - Renee Montagne, NPR News

"I have just read a marvelous book that I wish to recommend to all Americans, Dustoff 7-3 by Erik Sabiston. The flying was on the absolute edge, harrowing beyond description. Sabiston does a magnificent job… I was blown away!  Flying at the fringes of the machine's capability, in terrible weather and under enemy fire much of the time, he and his crew in an unarmed Blackhawk rescued 14 wounded soldiers, made three critical resupply runs, recovered two soldiers KIA, and nearly died several times. All in three days. Dustoff 7-3 is a combat helicopter flying tale right on par with CHICKENHAWK by Robert Mason, which I thought was the finest true combat helicopter story ever written until I read Sabiston's work. I'm going to put Sabiston's book on the shelf side by side with Mason's. After I read Dustoff 7-3, I have been shaking hands with every soldier I meet. They are all heroes to me!" - Stephen Coonts - 17-Time NY Times bestselling author of "Flight of the Intruder"

"This is a great book! It puts you in the seat and offers an intimate look at the men and women who put it all on the line when troops are in need." - Kevin Maurer, #1 NY Times Bestselling Author of “No Easy Day"

You want to know what the phrase "courage under fire" is really all about? Read Erik Sabiston's Dustoff 7-3." - John Weisman, 7-Time NY Timesbestselling author of "KBL"

"An engaging and thrilling insight into the world of US Army MEDEVAC's in Afghanistan. Erik does a wonderful job detailing the dangerous calls and the bravery demonstrated by not only the medics but the fearless pilots." - Marty Katz, Film Producer of “Titanic” & “The Great Raid”

"Erik Sabiston and the crew of Dust Off 7-3 are real-deal American heroes." - Scott MacTavish, Author of “Battle Ready” & director of “MURPH: The Protector”

"I used to wonder who those angels were that flew into our most hellish moments in combat, those men and women who would risk everything to save us or at least return our dead. After reading Dustoff 7-3, now I know." - MAJ (Ret.) Rusty Bradley, author of "Lions of Kandahar"

“It’s about time their story is told.” – Leslie Marshall, FOX News Channel contributor, Nationally Syndicated Radio Host and Blog Columnist 

“A gripping and heart-pounding tale of duty, and near death for the chopper crew, Dustoff 7-3represents a war story of gallantry.” – Jay Strafford, Richmond Times Dispatch

“A brave, cool hand behind the stick by necessity, Sabiston also writes astutely, cutting his deck of drama-riddled “cards” with slices of wry humor and true-life human interest. In doing so, he deals a winning hand.” – Dorcey Wingo, Vertical Magazine

"I expected adrenaline junkies or war cowboys, but instead found four regular people susceptible to the same fears and doubts as anyone else." - Tony Dokoupil, NBC News

Military Appreciation Month Spotlight: "This story is for heroes." Buckle up and read this inspiring story of Dedication, Teamwork and Courage!

It gives me immense pleasure to highlight those I meet along the way who have done exceptional things in their Life that truly inspire me. It makes me happy to shine the light on Erik Sabiston, whom I know, that just released a book about an incredible mission.

I just finished reading Dustoff 7-3. If you enjoy, like I do, a story of courage under extreme situations, dedication, and teamwork to pull off what could seem like the impossible for most, then snag a copy of this book now! I recommend it. 

It gave me a glimpse into a world many will never know, but would pray for a crew this dedicated to be there to rescue and retrieve loved ones serving in far off places who become injured. The story of Dustoff 7-3 kept me intrigued by laying out a story that became a journey into learning more this extraordinary Life experience, as told by Erik. He paints a picture of events leading up to and in the midst of an unforgettable mission he and his crew would experience and come out of successfully together. 

These are Real American Heroes. Unsung heroes who put themselves in harms way with such an intense sense of duty in looking out for others. Growing up on military bases, I admired that quality very much in many positive examples I saw. There was an above average sense of serving, not for fame and glory, but a sense of pride and community. I felt that same appreciation reading the actions of the troops in this book. Very inspiring and I'm glad I learned more about each of these individuals!  

Pick up a copy, read it and may you also be as inspired as I was that a crew as dedicated and giving their all exists. If I had someone I loved serving and they found themselves injured, I'd pray a crew like this would sweep them up out of harms way. 

Dustoff 7-3 received the Army Aviation Association of America's top honor for their mission, featured in this book, that occurred in Kunar Providence Afghanistan in June 2011. This mission was named Air/Sea Rescue that year. All 4 crew members received a Metal of Valor. Sabiston, Bringloe, and Brodhead received the Distinguished Flying Cross, the highest award in aviation. Capps received the Air Medal of Valor.

From the story, I took away a strong sense that each crew member brought important qualities and support, at different times and sometimes at the same time, resulting in a winning team dynamic that netted an exceptional mission accomplished.

Pick up a copy on Amazon, search for Dustoff 7-3 

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/0989798364/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1432087190&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SY200_QL40&keywords=dustoff+7-3&dpPl=1&dpID=51pYbV7dBtL&ref=plSrch

In addition to reading the book, check out this cool video of them as part of Newsweek's Heroes Summit:

http://original.livestream.com/herosummit/video?clipId=pla_a7920dac-206d-4a00-8d84-950ce746b5ac

A Recipe for Inspiration: Connections + Sharing = Expands Your Mind

Alas, I haven't been flying as much as I'd like, but I stay close to something flying related with technology at my finger tips! I am an avid user of digital toys and social media channels that I tap into to broaden my horizons. These tools allow me to explore, be inspired by others, as well as share my own adventures in this journey called Life. You never know who you inspire by sharing a piece of your world. Great ideas and stories are meant to be shared, in my opinion. I love being a part of that dynamic with the give and take on the digital highway!

On inspiration, I've always enjoyed meeting people from different walks of life and cultures as those experiences never seemed to fail me in broadening my mind, inspiring me in different ways and lending a different perspective. Growing up overseas on military bases in foreign countries is something I value immensely. I believe that experience taught me so much about appreciating, at a very basic level, to explore, see and understand that there are different ways to do doing things. I'm also grateful for the experience in that it contributed to me being open-minded about meeting people from various backgrounds. Made me learn and value that my way is my way, but it isn't the only way nor is it everyone else's way. Try saying that 5x fast! :-)

I find myself curious in meeting somebody from another country or different walks of life and often am interested in learning more about them. Why? It stretches my mind and experiences. I'm not wired for status quo. I'm an avid learner and never want to stop growing!  I believe an important part of growing is stretching myself, moving beyond the familiar and learning different ways of seeing/doing things.

Depending on the situation, I normally can strike up a casual conversation easily and gauge whether we're going to chat it up more or less fairly quickly. As much as I'm curious about differences, I do feel a strong connection with those who share like experiences, of course. That's a basic bonding trait, finding commonalities. However, I don't feel I grow if I'm only around the same type of thinking and routines. That isn't stimulating to me. So, I welcome opportunities to gain a different spin on things that challenge my way of thinking, reaffirm what's important to me and finding ways through the added perspective to do things for the better!

All this to say there are amazing people out there, some of them are your connections here, some of them you have yet to meet. Personally, I find it a rewarding experience getting inspired by another's share with me that challenges me to go out and see a new place or try something different. Speaking of which, remember my post on the awesome aerobatic flight I took in February while in Vegas? I met Maurice who is from Switzerland and traveling the world right now. Since February, he's been sharing some of his adventures with me, especially the flying ones he's experiencing. He's not only inspiring me to get out and travel more, he's really providing me a ton of inspiration seeing all the different flying opportunities around the world! 

This exposure to his adventures really challenges me to think about planning to see the places I want to see and fly, plus some new spots thanks to him! Who knew me striking up a casual conversation in the van on our way to an aerobatic flight we'd both never forget would connect me with a new international world traveling friend who has already given me wealth of inspiration in his messages and pictures shared! 

Now, Maurice told me that he's not a blogger, but had given me permission to share some of his pictures and descriptions. So, buckle up and enjoy this amazing glimpse into different places he's experienced in his world traveling adventure. I believe he knows I love flying, (I know, it's very hard to tell that about me) so there are many plane/flying pictures!:-)

Here's Maurice and I at Sky Combat Ace when we met before our epic Feb 2015 aerobatic flights in Vegas!

After leaving Vegas, he shared he visited Pima Air and Space Museum in Tuscon, including going on a tour on the boneyard of DMAFB. I haven't seen this before so now I have it on my radar!:-)

Next pictures are from his Hawaii visit. 

He took a ride in a glider plane at Dillingham airfield.

Next picture was from his stop in Japan. I love cherry blossoms. Makes me think fondly of memories growing up in Japan on base.

He shared some wonderful pictures from New Zealand! He met up with his brother to share the Chatham Island adventure. He told me he was bummed they couldn't fly with the old Convair 580 due to stormy weather. However, they were able to do some flying near Auckland. His brother is a pilot and they got to fly there. Took a ride in a Robin 200. 

They also took a seaplane ride around the volcanic mountains near Lake Taupo. He shared there's a lot of fly fishing going on there. 

He let me know that the nice, symmetric volcano pictured is best known as Mount Doom from the Lord Of The Ring movies.

He also shared this picture of a McDonald's restaurant in a plane! That's got to be the best McD to eat in. :-)

I love his advice: "If you haven't ever been here, you should seriously consider to change that. And bring the biggest and emptiest memory card you can find for your camera!"

Ha! Love the passion and I'm feeling adding NZ to my "fly and fish"

spots to visit!:-)

Now the latest email I got was just before he leaves NZ. Dude got another flight in!!

This is Whitianga airfield. He took a 30min trip in the tiny Tecnam Echo, an Italian aircraft. He shared, "At only 70 kiwi$ a bargain. That's about 53$ in your money."  I laugh when he writes "your money". I do enjoy meeting people from around the world where we even have to reference your versus my money, as in different currencies!:-)

He shared their hangar caters wedding receptions for aviation nuts. Sweet! 

He did tell me the SCA hangar is much cooler. They did have an amazing hangar. Check out my past blog to view those awesome pictures.

All in all, he is flying more than me and I'm the one training for my license. Ha! His action is showing me I'm slacking. So, what am I doing about it? Better believe I booked a good 4 hour block for some great flying this coming Friday. WOOHOO! That, my friends, is a great example of how one mind inspires another, both short term and long term for me.

I hope you too have found some inspiration in this share. A shout out Thank You to Maurice for being open to sharing these views and experiences as it could inspire others to go out, see, experience and live more!

See his flying pictures certainly has me pumped up for my flying Friday. :-)

What adventures are you looking forward to living?

Happy and Safe Adventuring, All!

Emily

Living it UP! One Recipe for Happiness: Think it. Want it. Go get it.Shine on!

It's Spring and Easter. That is making me think of New Life, what has been and what can be. Life is indeed a journey and adventure. I'm convinced it really is whatever we choose to make our mind up about it. It's either as great or as bad as I choose to believe it is. It's either do or do not. I'm the Captain of that choice. That's the memo I got and I'm sticking with it.:-) I tend to choose to seek moments of genuine gratitude with each day because I see the journey itself is an adventure!

I believe an important part of the recipe for happiness is identifying, over time, what serves you and what does not. That which does not serve should go to make room in your focus for what can be. Also, finding the things you are passionate about in Life. One found, do more of it! For me, flying is a unique passion I have found that truly Wows me. Not many things Wow me to the degree flying does and I love that I have chosen to have it be a part of my Life. One of the best decisions, Ever! 

In an age where we are inundated with distractions and stimuli, it takes extra effort focus and intention to be truly present. Flying does that for me and it energizes me. Flying pushes me far beyond the status quo of everyday mediocre life which I love, hones in all my focus and senses for that time and I feel a super charge of vitality after each and every flight knowing I was part of an incredible experience. It keeps me on my toes, on high alert, and leaves me with an abundance of gratitude and satisfaction reflecting on my growing abilities and skills. 

Something I really value about my Flying Adventures, and this applies to Life Adventures, are the goals I achieve. I love when a want, just a tiny spark of a thought, becomes a reality through intentional actions. In flying, that manifests when I think to myself that I'd really like to fly to a particular FBO. It may not happen for a while, but if I've got the want in my mind, I'm eventually going to do it when the time is right. This is not a unique recipe pertaining only to me. I know you can relate and hope you sonic boom, as I do, when each goal is lived out.

So, talking passion let me share with you a recent fantastic flight I had with my CFI on Wednesday, 4/1/2015, in Virginia. It was a exciting example of one of my flying goals achieved. It's funny how the mind works. When I was thinking of where to fly, I was leaning towards flying into airports I've been because I really like the coastal routes. Also, there was a hint of wanting to stick with what I knew versus traveling into the unknown, but then I came to my senses!:-) Thank goodness my "been there done that" radar was buzzing and a strong urge to stretch and explore took charge. New FBOs it was, made my mind up to expand my experiences and made it happen. I felt a lot of satisfaction after this flight as it was a flight I've been wanting to do for a while. I have the good sense to appreciate the great, but I fully embrace my nature and desire to stretch and experience more because that serves to enhance me in Life in more than ways than one. I truly see and appreciate the connection of my varied learnings, experiences and perspective serving me greatly in fueling my creativity, innovative thinking and ingenuity in my professional Life, too.

Come join me by enjoying a few pictures and videoes I captured! Note: Any pictures or video I shot was during positive exchange where I was not flying. Safety first, always!

A whole lot of flying cheese -Smile - face here! Blue skies, two new FBOs to fly into and the 152, now that's what I'm taking about as a recipe for a great day. 

Ready or Ready?! 

Upper right: Preflight smiles with Matt.

Lower right: My post flight smile and my FBO New Kent Aviation in the background.

The Route: Flew from W96 (New Kent)-7W4 (Lake Anna) -KLKU (Louisa) - then along the James River near downtown Richmond as we headed back to W96.

Enroute to 7W4 Kings Dominion is a good pilotage reference point.

Lake Anna 7W4. One of the shortest/narrowest runways I've landed. Good time! The shortest and narrowest I've landed so far is Hummel W75. I highly recommend you fly into that airport if given the opportunity. It is beautiful! Tip:  If you are interested, like me, in collecting your Virginia Aviation Ambassador stamps then stop by the mailbox off of the parking area to get that self service stamp. Luckily for me, Matt pointed out the stamp was probably in the mailbox. Roger that, it was so I didn't leave without it. If you know me and my flying, I'm serious about getting my stamps :-)

Next up was Louisa airport KLKU. Much longer runway. I always find it extra fun landing on a longer runway when I've just come from a really small one. It makes me really appreciate how long the runway is in those instances. Great welcome at KLKU by the owner Greg. He hooked me up with my… Wait for it… Wait for it… my stamp! :-) 

Enroute back to W96. Here's a shot of my Stratus. I love the combo of my ForeFlight and Stratus. Being a student pilot and learning, it's without question that I'm first and foremost learning the fundamentals without such tools. That being said I still value having them as secondary points of reference.

The trip back was one of my favorites! It was truly special seeing places that I walk around from high above. Like many aviation lovers, my eyes can't help but look up to the skies when I hear the sounds of an airplane nearby. It was amazing enjoying this flipped perspective. Now I was the one flying by, just how I've wanted! 

Here we see the James River!

It was neat to see the vibrant red spider on the field of University of Richmond. Another great pilotage reference point.

Traveling along the James River, soon approaching very familiar spots. Exciting!

Here's a cool shot that Matt took of Pony Pasture. This is so cool because I go fishing around here and spot familiar points.

I love this view of the bridges and Richmond ahead!

Flying over you bridge! :-)

Neat to see all the rocks down in the river and the city.

Sweet Richmond city shot! I like the reflection off the wing. Way more fun to fly over these roads versus drive them. Fact!

The familiar sight of New Kent airport. I can see my car from here! :-)

Here are two videos with some tunes that I created. Check them out for a more animated experience of this great day of flight!

- Two of my three takeoffs captured on 

   GoPro. http://youtu.be/4611TKa_Gr8

- Flying over the James River, Richmond,

  Virginia http://youtu.be/JOaiS1uS9XM

I hope you enjoyed this flying adventure with me through the pictures and video shared. I agree with doing more of what makes you happy. Flying makes me happy, so time to do some more!:-)

Finding your passions and doing more of the things that make you shine is a gift I've found in a few things, including flying. I hope you find it yourself, too, because the world benefits when people shine bright.

Every great adventure has a beginning, middle filled with ups and downs, and a grea end. For the times you find great happiness them, cherish them and do more of it! In times you go through challenges and we all do, power through and learn more about your strengths, what you like and do not like. For sometimes it is through those challenges you given a gift of You-Turns to redirect you on a greater path. You are stronger than you think!

We are all unique individuals here to live out our story. There's a reason we are here. It is my hope for myself, as well as others, to find purpose. That purpose may morph over time, but do what you can to find and align to what makes you shine brightest, by your own standards. As the famous by Howard Thurman: 

“Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.”

Sparrowrose Choose to be the greatest version of you. Encourage others to be their best version. You never know just who's watching and being influenced by your actions. Why not Inspire? I dare you!:-) Happy Adventuring, Always!

Buckle UP! Meet Adventurous Alaskan Aviator RoyRobert Fischer-Akootchook!

Boy, do I have a treat for you all! 

One of the favorite things I do with my aviation site & blog is to share unique, exciting, and pure Aviation loving Pilot Spotlight Interviews!! I'm a firm believer that Great stories are meant to be shared and I genuinely love shining the light on different pilots I have the pleasure of connecting with either in person or online by sharing some of their flying story.

Each interview is an Adventure, a glimpse into a different world.... different faces, experiences, and places, but we all have the same fierce aviation love burning strong within. I find each Pilot Spotlight lends itself to new learnings, reinforces others, has the potential to ignite sparks of inspiration to visit new places and adds a deeper dimension to each pilot after reading about their responses that show their love & passion for flying.

I'm so exited to feature in this Pilot spotlight with you RoyRobert Fischer-Akootchook! He's one of my favorite IGers. Follow his handle and you will be in for an exciting visual aviating Alaskan ride when you do: @ROYROBERT130

His Alaska aviation pictures on Instagram captured my attention. It takes a special something to keep capturing my eye & his pictures are ones I look forward to show up on my feed!!:-) With his feed, you gain a first hand, steady stream of beautiful wild Alasaka. From what I see, Alaska is so different from the concrete jungles I have walked. Even after moving to Virginia, which is less concrete junglish:-), it is far from the wild & more natural I see in much of Alaska. Growing up, I remember my Dad getting National Geographic, and seeing pictures of Alaska. For some reason they resonated. In the past few years, I saw Flying Wild Alaska and was very much WOW'D by these pilots called, "Bush Pilots" and the glimpses of some of the lives I saw there.  Now THAT's some wild windy flying!! I've been & continue to be fascinated by Alaska. A trip there is on my list. Of course, it must include Flying Alaska & fishing!:-)

 When I read RoyRobert's responses his love for flying sonic boomed!:-D Flying love sounds to be engrained in his every cell. His responses are energized, fiercely focused on his long love for aviation and his pictures show a beautiful lens into the flying world he lives in Alaska! I loved reading every response & seeing the pictures shared! I share with you his dedication to share his pictures. It took him a few attempts to send all pictures as I got to see that the internet connectivity was slower in Alaska, especially in the bush. Despite, he kept with it until I had all the beautiful aviation pictures to share with his spotlight piece here.

With no further wait, it is my pure pleasure to virtually introduce you to RoyRobert & share his responses in this edition of WingsConnect Featured Pilot Spotlight. Enjoy the ride!

Question 1: Tell me your Love at First Flight story and how you fell in love with aviation - where & when was your first flight? Also, what did you fly?

I fell in love with aviation from the second I was born! Since as long as I can remember! I grew up in an Aviation / Military family. It's what we always talked about and loved to do. My whole life all I every talked about or wanted to talk about was aviation. You know when you grow up with your best friends they always changed what they want to be we they grew up. Like in preschool they want to be a superhero, the next year they want to be just like their dad, a year later they want to be a firefighter, and it changed every year. But not for me, my whole life I knew I wanted to become a pilot. It never changed. That's what I loved and had passion for my whole life. It's still the same today, but my love for aviation grows everyday. Through out school all my teachers I had growing up they used to get mad because I usually changed the subject somehow and talked about as always, airplanes! Aviation! All my friends and family know that's all I every talk about. I can go on forever and ever and ever about aviation as you can see. Lol. :-) ✈️

The 1st time I took controls of an airplane was on December 21st 2012. The day people thought the world was going to end but it was just the beginning for me. I flew a Cessna 172 with a G1000 in it, down in Arlington, Texas. KGKY. Then in May 2013 I graduated from high school in my little hometown of Kaktovik, Alaska. I wasn't exactly sure where I was going to go to flight school at the time. But, I happened to go to a little air show in Fairbanks where I  talked with flight schools, that's where I fell in love with Warbelows Flight School. The school that I joined in August of 2013. I had my solo flight just after 10hrs of flight time. After a few of my solo flights I had to take break, 2 months off because I was having a hard time, I lost two close family members. So, in December of 2013 I wanted to finish and earn my license for the ones I lost. A week later, I passed my written and worked on more cross country hours so I could get my checkride in before the instructors left for Christmas break. My instructor and I scheduled my checkride for December 16, 2013. But the day before the checkride I cancelled it because I didn't like how the weather was. It was fly able for student pilots but it was in my personal minimums. Plus, I didn't feel 100% ready. After the break I went on another Mach checkride and felt ready. On the morning of my checkride the FAA examiner walked in and said, "good job." And shook my hand. I asked why and he told me that I made the right choice of canceling my first checkride. So I felt really good about the checkride! And I did do great, I earned my Private Pilots License on January 19, 2014. 

Question 2: What is the best advice you can give to fellow pilots?

The biggest one I can think of is to be "better safe than sorry." If you don't feel like flying cancel it and don't go. Or if the weather looks good for a few hours and you think you can beat it you most likely won't especially in Alaska. I've seen many crashes, all were pilot error and bad decisions. I have my own personal minimums, the regulations say you can fly but I wouldn't want to or feel comfortable doing so. You can always cancel flights if you don't feel comfortable. Advice I'd give to fellow pilots would be to always study and stay fresh. Because I took long breaks and didn't really get any studying in and I forgot a few things when I got back into flying. 

Question 3: What is your favorite part of being involved in aviation?

My favorite part about being in aviation is to fly airplanes! Well I love everything about aviation it's hard to name just one or a few.....hundred. Lol. I love to do any kind of work on the planes like taking off the wing covers and warming up the planes with the heaters when it's 45 below outside and I'm not even the one flying that day. Another good one is: I love how when you become a pilot you join the aviation family, like on Instagram all the student pilots or commercial pilots cheer you on or congratulate you when you pass a little test or something. It's great! They're always there to help you out if you have questions. 

Question 4: What is the best eating spots you've found in your aviation travels?

I'm not really too sure, since I fly to little dirt strips in the middle of nowhere. But I know when I buy my own plane and fly up on the North Slope of Alaska. I'm always welcomed into people's homes for dinner if I ever fly into any of the small villages in Bush Alaska, and I know native food would be on the menu. 

Question 5: What are your favorite airports that you've flown into and why?
My favorite place to fly into is Tanana, Alaska. PATA. On final you get to fly low over the Yukon River just before you touch down on the dirt strip.

Another good one is in Manley Hot Springs, Alaska. PAML. It's a new airport that just opened in the past year and it's like landing on a little narrow dirt road. It's fun to fly in when it's a little breezy because its a challenge to land from the winds or downdrafts from the huge hill next to the runway.

And my third favorite airport to fly to is in Lake Minchumina, Alaska. PAMH. It's a another airport that's not maintained, it's a soft strip and there's tall grass that grows on the runway. At both ends of the runway is the lake, so you have to land spot on, so you don't over shoot and fall off into the lake. 

Readers: Now, fasten your seatbelt tight, yell CLEAR PROP & check out his aviation action pictures!

WOW!

Nice!

Eyes out!

Like a Pro!

Legit! I like that fuzzy chair cover, too.:-)

Nice!!

Sky Gold!

Ready for high altitude adventure!

WOWZAS! What a supercharged ride through reading the responses & enjoying the view, right?!

RoyRobert, you have certainly inspired me and strongly reinforce my desire to visit Alaska one day! Thank you so much for sharing your time to divulge your responses and a few favorite Avi pictures so each of us reading gets to know you a bit more. What a fun visual & cerebral ride!:-)

Keep doing what you're doing & living it UP, Rockstar! I look forward to seeing your ongoing aviations adventures shared in your IG posts.

Happy & Safe Flying, Always!