Overview

"Ready For Takeoff - Stories from an Air Force Pilot recounts the extraordinary events of my ordinary Air Force career. From B-52 Cold War nuclear alert as a navigator, to wartime aerial refueling missions during Desert Storm and the Bosnian War, to flying General Tommy Franks after the 9/11 terrorist attacks, my career intersected many moments in history. I began as a quiet navigator and rose to command an Air Force squadron tasked with flying our nation's commanding four-star generals and admirals. These stories represent the exploits of many proud Air Force service men and women. Prior to every takeoff, pilots announce to the control tower that they are ""ready for takeoff."" The systems have been checked and the pilot is mentally prepared for whatever comes next. Psychologists know that some children benefit from equine therapy, interacting with horses to help them break out of their shell and gain self-confidence. I benefited from ""aviation therapy.'' Aviation has influenced my life in so many positive ways. I grew up shy and lacking self-confidence. It wasn't until I started taking flying lessons at age 16 that I ventured out on my own to pursue my dream. Through aviation, I learned to make decisions, some of which could have life-or-death consequences. I scared myself a few times, but truly believe that I embody the slogan, ""What doesn't kill you, makes you stronger."" The life lessons I learned through aviation made me ready to takeoff into adulthood and a successful military career."

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Would you like to understand what it is like to serve a 20-year career as an officer and aviator in the United States Air Force? David Dale describes that accurately in this book, Ready For Takeoff. Every military career is unique, but David captures the excitement, the challenges, the highs of victory, the lows of disappointment, and the satisfaction of serving his country in the wide variety of assignments which a career officer can be expected to complete. He, his wife Karin, and their children, comprised the quintessential Air Force family, facing all the highs and lows of military life together and supporting others on the same path. They are just a single example of thousands of military families who have served, and serve today, throughout the world. David's book will be of interest not only to those who are just looking for a really good read, but also to young men and women contemplating service to their country as Air Force officers and airmen. David tells it like it is! Dennis Dolle Colonel, USAF, Retired Ready for Takeoff puts you in the cockpit with vivid descriptions, taking you through training, testing, and actual missions for multiple Air Force aircraft. David gives us a unique view of world events from his work space 40,000 feet in the sky. This book shares military success, yes, but also relatable tales of failure that extend beyond military life. It is through these disappointments that we see the grit and determination to reach one's goals and when that doesn't work, the flexibility to forge a new path. Ribbons of family, friends, love, and leadership wind their way through these captivating stories. Lucy Pendleton Purple Pen Copy Editor I thoroughly enjoyed reading of David's incredible pathway through the labyrinth of military life as an Air Force pilot! The diversity of adventures and experiences along with his bits of wisdom are truly inspiring. I just wish the book was available before I started my own career -- it would have saved me a lot of angst. Very well written and a great read. Carl Meade Colonel, USAF, Retired Former NASA Astronaut, STS 38, 50, and 64 Ready For Takeoff is the engaging story of Air Force pilot David Dale, a lifelong aviator who soloed at age 16 and got his pilot's license one week before starting college. His remarkable adventures directly intersect with important points in our recent history, including the Cold War, Gulf War, Somalia, Rwanda, 9/11, and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, among other pivotal events. Often expressed with a sense of humor, he describes the life of a career Air Force pilot, officer, and crewmember in a very engaging and personable way. Skillfully told from the perspective of a family man with faith, integrity, and pride in what he represents, this book is for all military, aviation, and history enthusiasts who want to gain a deeper appreciation of each of those areas. Enjoy. Bruce Hurd Colonel, USAF, Retired Author of Amazon #1 Bestseller Aim Point: An Air Force Pilot's Lessons for Navigating Life

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