114th Aviation Company

Director's Forum

Well, Knight Flight, I have had many “last” experiences. Just a few of great and lasting impact on me were the day I left you in Vinh Long to return to the land of the “World”, the last Combat Assault and FAC flight. Graded my last student, and completed my last OER. Flew my last mission in the 0-1, 0-6, U-1A, T-42, L-23, H-13, H-19, H-21, UH-1 and finally, the “last flight”. Put my flight helmet in my bag and it hangs in my den for me to look at with longing eyes occasionally.

I took off my fatigues and finally my “Greens”. I tried industry and early on decided it did not hold a candle to working with and for you. Left industry to retire to the farm and E-mail.

Rocked and held my last grandchild as he is too big now. He is still young enough to listen to the old fart but will soon reach the know-it-all age of young life.

I know you could help me expand the list and recognize that I left out my final visits and talks with so many great friends and comrades. I can’t review that list without despair while I salute each of their lives.

Now it is time to write my final Forum. I want to thank all of you for allowing me to serve for three full terms as your National Director. It has been a most joyful task serving with the great people who made up the Executive Council and the volunteers who served and serve as Committee Chairman and members. I won’t list the names. Just look at the Key Personnel list. Every one stepped up, often in dire situations, and fulfilled all asked of them.

Now this old Aviator/Warrior finds it time to ask the youngsters to take the controls. I have seen the nominations received so far and we are in good hands. My promise to all who have agreed to run is simply to help to the best of my ability when asked and to enjoy life without interfering at all other times. I hope that will be your pledge as well.

My sincere thanks to the wonderful warriors who became the well earned title,” KNIGHTS OF THE AIR”.

Charles T. Brown
National Director