http://www.moesrealm.com/img/Photoshop/sr71.jpg

 

Hate to brag... But I will.

I was stationed at Edwards AFB, some of my friends were SR-71 pilots, and I was fortunate to sit in the cockpit of an SR-71 during ground tests on the ramp at Edwards. I know a lot about this plane, the one thing that strikes you (especially when you're working primarily on the B-2 and F-15E) is how analog the SR-71 is. Not a damn computer in sight really... well not like the stealth bomber or strike eagle. The SR-71 is very much a stick and rudder aircraft.

I've been fortunate enough to see some of the most incredible aircraft of the 20th century up close and personal in a way that few people ever get the chance. I was even lucky enough to participate in a B-2 refueling mission where I was flying in the jump seat of the KC-135 we were using to refuel after a JDAM test mission.

I've been inside the AC-130U, Combat Talon, Sabre Cross, and numerous other very incredible planes. Upclose and personal with U-2 and it's replacement TR-1A. Edwards AFB is a horrible assignment... unless you're an aviation buff. Unlike anything else is the world then.

Mark

 

u still live in the area mark? My cousin is a 1st LT at the test pilot school there. I go visit from time to time.

 

back about 10 years ago I went to an airshow there. got some great pics of a C5 galaxy. holy **** that's a huge plane. they also had the SR71 all plugged up and parked in a hangar. did some stealth bomber flybys too. great place to watch things fly.

 

Nah, I live in San Antonio, TX now.

Mark

 

Saw the SR-71 take off when it was at the Farnborough Airshow (UK) I was right at the end of the runway behind it when it lit up and took off. I have seen many aircraft at that show. Now I just get to see the aircraft being built such as the JSF, F-22, even saw the F-22 flying around the Lockheed factory doing test runs. All very cool.