Today we reminisce about those who received their final "Charlie." The names are many, too many, and the numbers increase all too frequently. Those who have made that final "Trap" were competent Officers and Men, yet the "Big Air Boss" had a higher calling for them. No, it is not by luck, nor by skill that we remain, it is only by grace and mercy. We, who endure, should be thankful for the extra holding time allotted.

We will all have that "Final Charlie Time." Some sooner than others as we read, "Another One" on the e-mail reports. We all hope for an OK-3, but a hook-skip to 4 would be delightful. I will be thankful just for the barricade. The "Boss" does not want any to perish. He has made provisions for all to be spared. He will erase our drinking & stinking, fussing & cussing, lying and dying, smoking and choking, and other Fighter Pilot transgressions (mine are many) if we only ask. He will remember them no more. Then He can clear the deck for our arrival. According to His Manual our departed friends will welcome us aboard that Eternal Shangri-La (not CVA 38). Our Eternal Financial Statement will be beyond calculation, and the retirement is out of this world. I am looking forward to flying at the speed of light. How about you?

Please review His Guidebook to insure you are ready for the Final Inspection. If you have questions, just ask and He will direct you. Five Thousand years after the "Fat lady sings" we can still be having F-8 Reunions on the other side while the Marines stand the duty, "….the streets are guarded by the United States Marines."

Most of us only consider ourselves as human beings, with a small spiritual experience, when in fact; we are spiritual beings, with a short human experience. What we do spiritually, during our human experience, will determine our spiritual address forever. The human experience is usually over in 3 score and 10 years (more or less) but our spiritual component will last forever. We should enjoy the former but not forget about the latter.

Today you’re younger that you will be the rest of your life. So enjoy and be thankful.

Ron