Gold Wings and Sparrowhawk - Chapter 11

October 1999
Abord the USS Patrick Henry
In the Adriatic sea

Dear Nell,

I'm on the crow's nest at the moment, looking over the deck and thinking. I had a talk with the CAG earlier and... my career as a Naval Aviator may come to an end sooner than I expected. I missed a couple of wars, I don't have enough flight hours or traps to command a squadron... I love flying, Nell, I love it so much. You know the feeling of flying a jet. It's a feeling like no other.

But I have to think of my career. There's a court martial on board at the moment, the fleet JAG doesn't know a thing about this end of the law, he's more of an administrative lawyer. And I can't help but try to help. When I lost my flying status in '91, I was reluctant to go into law. And now, it seems I can't wait to get back to it.

But if I leave, maybe I should say « when I leave », it's going to be my choice, and on my time. I'll be able to keep my flying status, do my quals. I've come to love the law. I'll be leaving with my head high, having served well, having nothing else to prove. The squadron gave me a new callsign today, the same as my fathers, Hammer. I feel so honored, and proud. I do regret leaving flying and sea duty. But I think I'll love being back into the courtroom. I'll tell you how it goes.

Fly high always !

Harm

Dear Harm,

Life has a way of closing doors in front of our noses just when we expect it the least, only to push them open again when, again, we expect it the least. I'm sorry you're leaving your flight squadron, but I'm glad you'll be doing something you love equally.

I'm coming to the States next month, I'll be in Washington for a day or two. If you're back, or on shore leave, let me know ! I'd love to see you !

Take care of my flyboy !

Nell