On Mon, 1 Mar 2004 17:28:24 -0600, "D. Strang"
wrote:

"Ed Rasimus" wrote

The big guys to bombers, small guys to fighters concept is strictly an
urban legend. And, it isn't simply related to Century Series--take a
look at Robin Olds, 6' 2" and a solid 220 for most of his flying
years. That means starting with his WW II experience in P-38s and 51s.

I love the picture of Chappie James who is overflowing the F-4 cockpit,
while his backseater looks like his helmet is too big, and is so small you
could put two of him in there. I think it was in the GPO printed
USAF Aces and Aerial victories book.


Chappy tended toward over-statement. The real leader of the 8th TFW
was Robin, but with his emphasis on leading-by-example, Chappy was
forced to fly the tough missions as well.

Chappy's comment about his bulk in the F-4 cockpit was "I don't get
in, I put it on."

When a flight lead exhorted Chappie on how he wanted close formation
flown by saying, "I want you on my wing, attached with a six foot
string." Chappy replied, "how much slack ya'all want in that string."


Ed Rasimus
Fighter Pilot (USAF-Ret)
"When Thunder Rolled"
Smithsonian Institution Press
ISBN #1-58834-103-8