22 - Fighter Pilot's Daughter (Don O. Austin, LtCol USAF Ret.)
I think often about how fortunate I am that my father, through skill and good fortune, managed to return home unscathed from Vietnam. I would not be here to read about you otherwise. His experience at Vietnam, and generally in the Air Force make up a large part of his pride and self. The good values that were instilled in that experience, such as loyalty, strength, pride and sheer guts were shared with me. I look up to my father for his strength of character and I hope to have that strength someday. I can already see it in my brother (see entry 21). I want to thank all of you for providing such a great foundation and giving us opportunity to continue to enjoy freedom and peace stateside. It is a sacrifice you made not only for yourselves, but for your families and country. For that, we are forever indebted.
I am very proud to be a fighter pilot's daughter!!