After working as the courseware lead for the VH-71 (Presidential Replacement Helicopter) program for over a year, their funding was cut and I became the Lead Subject Matter Expert for the Republic of Singapore Air Force Basic Wings Course, I had previously helped develop the Rotary Wing flight syllabus for the RSAF. I am also assisting with LM's pursuit of the UK-SAR Helicopter program providing SME support.
Would enjoy getting together with former squadron/ship/class mates and former flight students.
Other Comments:
I remarried in 2006 to Pattie Higgins. I was medically retired (TDRL) from the Reserves in October 2006 for vertigo caused by Meniere's Disease which occured while I was mobilized as a helicopter flight instructor for HT-18 (in October 2003). I was permanently retired in October 2008. I am unable to fly these days, but stay active in aviation with my current position at Lockheed Martin. Pattie and I now live in the Orlando area.
Best Moment After being forced to drop a SUS on what my OIC called a submarine periscope wake, I saw a whale broach the surface.
I had previously had a disagreement with him about a Spruance Class ship we saw at a distance he refused to admit was a Spruance.
I just said, "Man, Greenpeace is going to be PISSED!"
The good thing is the SUS did not hit the whale.
Worst Moment Doing a full exercise worth of Purple Messages in one day with Bill Gross. And figuring out how to state the OIC made me drop a SUS on a whale.
Pushing the helo in the hangar with snow blowing down on us. I looked over at my friend Bill and said, "You know (SH-) 60 guys don't get to have this kind of fun!"
Chain of Command Bill Davenport (OIC) Jud Vonkolnitz (MO) Dave Diamond (OPS) Bill Gross (TRNG/ADMIN)