To all:

You know, after reading most of this stuff about who did more, or who
was best, or whether fighter jocks were better than multi-engine pukes,
I got these thoughts:

Most of my USAF and subsequent contractor flying career was in single
place aircraft (or trainers with me in the back seat). I always thought
that this was the easy job. I didn't have to coordinate my decisions
with anyone else in my aircraft (I never flew an aircraft with a WSO).
My decision was final. I was in total control of the situation. I lived
or died on my call, and (except for instructing, or in formation) didn't
have to worry about anyone's ass but mine.

I believe that, because of the USAF selection process, the best pilots
mostly get assigned to fighters. That's a good thing. But I'll tell you
what: I have nothing but respect for the many-engine guys (and gals) who
have to put up with crew coordination and whatever else makes good
things happen to big airplanes. This is a big job.

I don't understand their job. But my hat is off to them.

Jim Thomas