Author David E.B. (DEB) Ward was fortunate to have had a fantastic military career in the Air Force and the Oregon Air National Guard. PORTLAND, CHECK OUR CONTRAILS outlines David's impressive military career. David was operationally qualified in two different jet trainers and a progression of jet fighters, including the F-102 Delta Dagger and F-101 Voodoo interceptors, the F-4C Phantom tactical fighter, and the air superiority F-15 A and B model Eagles. All of these aircrafts have since been retired. Even though David hung up his G-suit 30 years ago, veterans still maintain a kinship with the current cadre of F-15 pilots, who are in the process of retiring their F-15C models while transitioning into the new, highly mission-capable F-15EX.

Fighter pilots, as well as their Weapons System Officers, are a distinct and individualistic breed. When operating a highly maneuverable aircraft and one of the most powerful air-breathing machines in the world, you might be expected to take on certain distinguishable personality characteristics. PORTLAND, CHECK OUR CONTRAILS brings you into the cockpit and gives you a first-hand recount of this experience.