21 - Hero's
To all of the men of the 34th Fighter Squadron. My father (Lt Col Donald O. Austin USAF Ret) was a member of this prestigious squadron in 66/67. I was very fortunate to have him return from what appeared to be one hell of a war, especially the "PACK 6" missions. He was a model father to both me and my sister with a typical fighter pilot approach. I have flown in Desert Storm / Desert Fox / Enduring/Iraqi Freedom in both B-52 and B-1 and have experienced combat both in the air and on the ground. I am currently the F-35 Operational Test Director at AFOTEC. To the Point: I have been raised by fighter pilots throughout my adolescence and I want you all to know that this generation of fighter pilots are my heroes and I am quite sure that my friends growing up would concur. Thank you for doing what you did. You all are a credit to your generation and fighter pilot community. You exceeded the standard in all areas. Keep your speed up and Check 6, Kurt L. Austin Lt. Col. USAF