On Time On Target

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I woke up at 0500. I did not dream — but did feel refreshed — as the new day started. Well, the morning darkness at least. After forcing myself out of bed, I walked to the bathroom, and turned on the shower. I felt like I needed a jerk, so I turned it all the way cold. That woke me up! After a yelp, I quickly added hot water, and proceeded to take a shower. I needed one after last night. I just simply lay down, and promptly fell asleep. So refreshed comrades, and ready to partake in what seemed like one of the more interesting missions.

I drove straight to the hangar, smoking in the vehicle. It was against base regulations, but then again, at night everybody breaks these rules, and this morning was no exception. I was still groggy, and drove swiftly as well. Fast enough to get there at a reasonable time, but to also not annoy the Security Police cars that the USAF brought along with them. It seemed I had to worry more about getting a ticket than what I had to face on a mission. Such a world these days. I parked, and finished my cigarette. I went through the checks at the door, then was let inside. I walked to my office, and promptly changed into my flight suit. Some butterflies were in my stomach, but they did not annoy me too much. I was too busy preparing to let them affect me. I opened the safe, and pulled out the shoulder holster with my Makarov still there. I had gotten this from a US Army Lietenant who was a liaison at the time. He had left, and traded some aviators boots so I could have the holster. I liked this a lot. It enabled you to simply wear your sidearm, and was quite comfortable and did not get in the way of the flight suit. I loaded and charged the weapon, then re-holstered it.

Pulling out my pack of cigarettes, I set one cigarette on the desk, for when I return to the airfield. I grabbed my flight helmet, then stepped outside. Gennedy's four workers were there. I had them re-inspect the connections, while one opened the hangar doors. After that, they began the task of removing the safety pins on the weapons.

After they were complete, I did my pre-flight checks, and then the most senior member saluted me as I taxied out with the canopy open, wings folded, and the sun already starting to warm the chilly air outside. I may never (want to) set foot on a carrier, but it is a carrier plane, and I must respect that. Besides, the aircraft looks threatening with just it's wings folded.

It is a calm moment, despite the radio traffic. As you taxi to the runway. It is your moment of peace before the pressure of the mission sets in on you. But it felt good to be on a mission too, as well as the cool morning air.

As I taxied to the ramp from the HAS, I noticed one particular aircraft just entering the runway for takeoff. The Ukrainian splinter scheme was unmistakable. I could not make out the nose area, which identified Sacha or Vasily, but I was apprehensive nonetheless. I guided my aircraft carefully as I tried to make out the nose. I wished I could move faster! But I must obey the speed limits on the tarmac like everybody else. So I merely wished well to the pilot whether it was Sacha — or even Vasily, in spite of his annoying behavior. Dasvidanya lucky one, come back alive...

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