Nick was a Bell Huey Cobra Pilot in the US Army during his younger years before he learned to tie his shoe laces. (There is a story behind that comment!)
The front seater (Pilot/Gunner) had a side mounted Cycle Stick in those that were easily over-ridden by the Rear Seater who was the Pilot...until a Mod was made that allowed a front seated Instructor Pilot to over-ride the Student in the rear seat for use during Conversion Training.