I'm not alarmist to say that the FAA is going to ground 80% of the senescent USA glider training fleet sometime soon. The only question is when.

The L-13s are being recycled.

The few people who know how to properly inspect and keep the 27 wooden Schleichers KA-* gliders flying safely are retiring.

The 314 registered SGS 2-33s may last forever, or one might fail this weekend.

Given the tragic and inevitable consequences of an aging fleet, it is unconscionable and unsportsmanlike to turn a blind eye. Recent events should be a call to action.

Yes, you're right. I'm riding my high horse. Talk is cheap. But I'm holding a note that finances my share of a brand new PW-6 for my local soaring club. (No, I'm not made of money. I cut back somewhere else.) So since I'm not just shooting off my mouth, I think that it is entirely reasonable for me to say this:

Gentlemen. Please step up!