Capt (Ret) McArdle

You're big ass speaker icon triggers me. FIX IT

1stLt McArdle Aviation Combat Element, VMFA-211 San Diego, CA Beth, I don't really know why I'm writing this to you, I guess I just feel the need to tell someone something. Yesterday was my first chance to get into the skies and test my metal on this deployment. It was a beautiful early morning flight, the stars were out with very few clouds. If you could gather a moment and forget what you're doing there, you'd see how beautiful this area really is. Looking down onto the mountains and cities, you see these beautiful little towns surrounded by hills and mountains covered in show, it almost takes your breath away. But as soon as you can get a chance to enjoy the view, all hell breaks loose. In all the missions I've flown thus far, none has made me feel so useless. We were able to spot some enemy helicopters charging at our boys on the ground from a large distance away, but were unable to do anything except give a heads up. Sitting there, watching, knowing that they are going to rain hell down on them leaves your stomach in a knot. I know why we couldn't engage any earlier, but that doesn't make it any less painful to see those helicopters lighting up the ground, leaving you wondering if any of your friends are in their path of destruction. Thankfully we were eventually able to destroy the threat, but at what cost? I don't know, I've yet to see what paperwork of who was hit. It was a rough first mission, and it's only beginning. Say hello to your parents for me, maybe I'll write again. Mc

Name (including initials):McArdle, Peter Rank: 1stLt Billet: 7518 Pilot, F-35 Section: VMFA-211 Avengers Detachment Commander Are you Game Admin Qualified: Yes Additional Duties (S-Shops or Instructors): Detachment Commander Link to SMF Profile: http://15thmeu.net/forums/index.php?action=profile