Taking things for granted... (LONG POST)

[fmurphy]

First of all I apologize for such a long post. But news events from this last week put a few things in perspective for me.... If you're in to the aviation photography like I am, you really couldn't ask for a much better place to live and take photos and share with friends. This is a true story. A couple of years ago, during the holidays while at our local airport shooting photos I noticed a family out on the ramp talking to a pilot that was about to get into his office (F-18 Hornet). They hugged and said their goodbyes and I thought this is pretty cool. When the family came over to the fence I asked them how they were and if their holiday has been good so far. The mother of the pilot turned to me with tears in her eyes and said thats my son...he flew in to surprise us for christmas, we haven't seen him in over a year. She was so happy, but then again sad that he had to leave. The father and uncle were the same way. I smile and told them thank you for their service and having such a fine young man serve our country. It had to be tough.... I told them them HEY! I'll take some photos of your son leaving and send them to you so you can remember the day. They were just amazed a stranger would do that for them. The family was from a small town about 100miles from where I live and were very appreciative. The jets engines started on the plane and their son was leaving. He gave us all and big wave and a smile as he left and the parents stood there proudly wondering if they would ever see him again,,,,,,,,,, A lot of people take for granted that they're just cool military planes coming in so we can take their photos and then they're on their way to wherever, having fun flying this stuff we've dreamed of flying all of our lives. It's really hard to describe the feeling when we have a chance to see and meet all of these fine men and women of the military when they come in to set down next to us and have lunch or just work on their flight plan. We normally strike up a conversation and tell them we really appreciate what they're doing for us. (then we start asking questions about their planes,like any kid would do) You have a chance to see their smiles and talk about their families and sometimes you see their stress from something not going as planned. Either way, you realize this is their job and it's not as glamorous as some would think. They're away from their families protecting ours, and at any given moment as we saw last week, whether it be on the battlefield in the sky or just working in the office their time to give the ultimate sacrifice has arrived. Next time you see one of these guys or girls tell them thanks.. or buy 'em a greasy artery clogging burger and fries and visit with them a bit. It does make a difference......

 

[vito]

You're doing great, Frank. Wishing there were more people like you supporting the people who do service for all of us.
A burger and fries, a few words or just even a smile. Won't cost that much but will give them good feelings.
Blessings.

 

[Nancy-IL]

Frank, I have so much respect for you and what you're doing. The photos are only part of the story. When I see an officer in uniform, I most always say "Thank you" if they're in earshot. We should all take a moment to say thanks. I really appreciate your posts. Thank you!

 

[DavefromCt]

I enjoyed your post. You're so right. I met a lot of nice families when I was stationed in various places in the world and will never forget being invited to supper then to just sit around and chat....it was so hard being away from home but that made a definite difference and took the edge off quite a bit!

 

[fmurphy]

thanks for the kind words everyone... just wanted to post this little experience in hopes it would make people more aware of their surroundings and those we need to thank and their families for being able to do so. And thank you Dave and every other member here that has served and is serving.....come to Amarillo and I'll have the biggest greasiest burger you can handle ready and waiting (medical service extra).... may even watch a few planes while we're at it.
Thanks
Frank M

 

[Larry (IL)]

Great post Frank, thanks.