Success is a Journey.
Sometimes you’re the victim. Other times, the victor.
Today, I’m reflecting on a journey that began exactly 39 years ago as a terrified fourth-class cadet at the United States Air Force Academy….saluting a general four years later at graduation….and ended in the cockpit of an F-16 high above enemy skies.
That path was anything but straight. I stumbled, doubted, feared.
I’ve faced panic in a dark cockpit, claustrophobic at 30,000 feet, and doubts that diminished my confidence and courage. It often sucked and there was some misery on the flightpath, but I never quit.
Despite the challenges I also had a blast!!
I barrel rolled through puffy clouds and broke the speed of sound.
I found lifelong friendships, victories that made my soul sing, and the profound joy of serving something greater than myself.
Through the Chaos came Clarity.
From Setbacks emerged Strength.
Fear eventually turned to Fun!
And I discovered the true essence of growth:
➡️ Humility.
➡️ Discipline.
➡️ Integrity.
➡️ Resilience.
➡️ And above all—wingmanship.
Here’s the truth: There will be thunderstorms & sunshine, exhilarating wins & crushing defeats. But every moment builds the foundation for who you’re becoming.
✅ Embrace the struggle.
✅ Take the risk.
✅ Accept the losses.
✅ Celebrate the wins.
✅ And cherish the entire ride.
Choose to fly even when the skies are dark & the missiles are on the horizon.
Stay in the cockpit. Keep growing, and most importantly—Never Fly Solo.
P.S. Congrats to the Air Force Academy Class of 2025. Tomorrow, as you toss those hats into the air, know this: The real mission is just beginning.
And we’ll be watching your six every step of the way.
