DEAD DOWNWIND
Ten harrowing days that changed aviation history
by BILL RIDDLE
“Gentlemen, as you
know, naval aviation is at a crucial juncture.
There are people, some of them important people,
who question the Navy’s need for aircraft – any
aircraft. Many consider Navy aircraft capable of
nothing much more than shoreline patrol duty,
and unfortunately, the public listens to them.
Even some of our own brass
are mired in the belief that the Navy
would be better off using aircraft funds
elsewhere…. Therefore, if the Navy is to
continue to stay in the air we must do whatever
we can to alter these perceptions.
“We’ve been offered
a unique opportunity to make naval history. I’ve
asked you here because each of you is the best
at what you do. I want to extend to you the
chance to volunteer for a very important
project. It’s a bold plan, and one that will
necessitate some personal sacrifice…. The
ultimate mission will be hazardous.”
---From DEAD DOWNWIND