Thank you!
What a fantastic discussion!
I have the fondest memories of my very modest military 2,000 hrs in Hueys and the highest respect for any rotary pilot who can survive a career in the machines with the stress of low flying, (limited) performance, wire strikes, gearbox chip lights, tail rotor failures, vortex rings, PIOs .. blah blah.
I am an ex military "jack of all trades - master of none" pilot (Caribous, Hueys, small jets) but had a recent fixed wing incident where some of the basic skills of chopper flying (flying at the limit - not beyond) and respecting the machine proved to be a great asset on the day.
I only did it for 2,000 hrs on the Huey - you guys did it for a career. I loved my time on choppers and think I am so much the better for it.
I have the utmost respect for you all. Thanks for the discussion.
Safe flying!
Rich