Welcome to the T-38

Author: Chip Sparrow

After our dollar ride introduction to the T-38 our syllabus was to start with flying basic instruments, under the bag of course, followed by a Basic Instruments Check Ride. My check pilot was a Major Lucky. We were assigned to one of the far western areas out of Laughlin that put us within easy distance of Big Bend Natl Park and it's Rio Grande River.

After the check ride portion, which I felt I had done well, Major Lucky asked, "Do you want to have some fun?"

"Well yessssirrr!"

He took the bird rolled into a split S and down we went into the Rio Grande river canyon, blazing along in a blur at 300-400. Then he stood it on its tail and plugged in the burners. When I could see straight again the altimeter was winding through 25,000'.

Then he said, "Welcome to the T-38, let's go home!" YES SIR!