flightlog

It was 1957, I had been up flying many times with my cousin Howard. He was a plump old fella full of fun and the patience of Job himself. He had me do many takeoffs and landings. My first stall nearly convinced me I did not like flying but It was fun. I spent my week ends at the field which was only a jump over a fence. One day he said to me, "I think your ready" Ready? I was not sure what he meant until he handed me the keys to the cub. "Take it up fly over Cobelt field and bring her back" he always called the cub a lady. Aside from flying well she was fun to fly.
In any case, I am here now so it went well. I was nervous but once in the air I could hear his gentle voice coaxing me to pull back a little. Back down on the throtte your nose is a bit high bring it down. in no time I was over Cobelt airport turned it and pointed the compas back to the place I started. It seemed like forever and I was beginning to think was lost when the airport came into my view. Soon I was turning on to my final approach. I checked the wind and it was perfect. Nearly due out of the west. As the cub settled towards the ground I was almost disapointed it was over yet glad to see the runway under me. The wheels touches and the tail dropped I coasted to the mid runway and put in some left brake to turn her back to the hanger. I dont think anyone ever forgets the first time they take one up alone. I know I never will.

The Piper cup J3 model

This was the craft that I soloed in,(above) June 12, 1957 I was 16 years old. Gosh that was a memorable day.

This was my first airplane
(a facsimile of)
I had the keys but my Cousin was the owner. I was to inherit it but some how it never got put in his will.

Piper Crusier J5

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