However, in Operation Desert Shield/Storm the reserve component of the military really shut up active duty for a while...85% of the US forces in the gulf were reservists. Thankfully, this time around (in Gulf War II), I got the feeling that reservists were given a little more respect. I can at least say that the active duty Marines I was with treated me as an equal (thanks Yuma, AZ Marines).
One thing that I always believed is that if your civilian job coincides with your military job, 9 times out of 10, you will excel at your military job. Below is proof.
The picture taken was from Afghanistan in support of Operation Mountain Resolve in November, 2003. The Chinook CH47 helicopter is making a very unique landing to pick up some Afghan detainees suspected of questionable goings-on.
This is not the first time this pilot has made a touchdown like this. His name is Larry Murphy and he is from the PA National Guard. In the civilian world he flies EMS choppers in the Keystone Helicopter Corps.
A landing like this in the mountains of Afghanistan (or anywhere) is very tricky. They have to keep the chopper steady in the face of wind and possible small arms fire. Not to mention setting down on a building of questionable structural integrity.It definitely takes a lot of talent and sheer nerve to pull this off.
4 comments:
Great story, Sarge. Keep 'em comin'!
I surely hope Larry Murphy was recognized for his skill and bravery along with all the men and women reservists who make the commitment to honor their country while trying to combine families, jobs, and living life.
Dad and I are so VERY proud of what you did, Zach. And thanks, too, for your part in it all.
he definitely has the testicular fortitude to make a pick up like that. nice!
ha ha you said, 'testicular fortitude'...
That dude would be a real asset during a traffic jam when the need for a burrito grande hits.
Post a Comment