Russell, Robert

“Retired in July of 1977. Started work as a “Beltway Bandit” consultant for Naval Air Systems Command in early 1978. I provided support and advice on Foreign Military Sales (FMS) for F-14s and numerous air launched missiles. Participated in site surveys and program reviews in 16 countries around the globe.

The F-100 was my primary aircraft, and first love, 1400 hours, and I was an F-100 Viet- Nam volunteer in 65 & 66 but MPC kept telling me they had more than enough F-100 drivers coming out of Luke as they transitioned SAC pilots to single engine fighter pilots.

I had to go to plan B. In 1966 I won the only A-1 slot that came to Nellis. My 9 months flying the A-1E out of Udorn Thailand was the most satisfying of all flying I had ever done.

As “Sandy’s” we led the rescue efforts for our pilots who had been shot down. I was a member or flight leader of many successful Pick Ups.

I too was shot down over N. Viet- Nam and picked up by a Jolly Green. I spent an unplanned overnight in Laos after I used up my “Bingo” fuel in an aborted pickup attempt. The dirt strip night landing is a whole new story. Being the number 2 live body extraction from an A-1E with the Stanley Yankee system was also a life changing event.”