From Battlefield to Classroom: A Pilot's In-Flight Journey

A Unique Perspective from the Skies

Aviators often gain a unique perspective on life, thanks to their high-altitude vantage point. This view allows them to see the world in a way that others cannot. For example, the Apollo 17 astronauts described Earth as a "blue marble" from space. In his memoir, former U.S. Air Force and airline pilot Richard Hess offers a similar perspective, blending personal experiences with broader reflections on life.

A Journey Through Life

In "High Flight: A Pilot’s Journey Through Life," Hess presents a comprehensive account of adventure, travel, family, friends, and faith. Unlike many retired pilots who focus on the daring aspects of their careers, Hess shares his emotions, mistakes, and vulnerabilities. Capt. Alan Cockrell, a retired United Airlines pilot and author, notes in the book's foreword that Hess reveals his feelings, failings, and errors, offering readers a more intimate look at his journey.

The Power of Emotions

Hess begins his memoir with a powerful reflection on emotions. He compares feelings to clothing in a suitcase, suggesting that carrying too many negative emotions can weigh a person down. This metaphor sets the tone for the rest of the book, highlighting the importance of emotional well-being.

A Challenging Childhood

Hess's early life was marked by challenges. As the only child of parents who divorced when he was a toddler, his upbringing was difficult. His mother remarried multiple times, and his stepfather used corporal punishment frequently. Despite the love from his maternal grandparents, Hess struggled to connect with his real father throughout his childhood.

A New Path

After a year at the Merchant Marine Academy, which Hess describes as a "graduate-level introduction to hazing and abuse," he transferred to the State University of New York at Stony Brook. At age 20, feeling restless, he accompanied a friend to an Air Force recruiting office and soon found himself enlisting. His first flight marked the beginning of a lifelong relationship with aviation.

Training and Experience

Hess's career in the Air Force included various assignments, such as working as a computer operator at Ent Air Force Base in Colorado Springs, an ROTC post in Miami, and undergoing undergraduate pilot training at Vance AFB in Enid, Oklahoma. His training covered essential topics like weather, navigation, aerodynamics, and formation flying.

Global Missions

By the early 1980s, Hess was an Air Force commander with the 18th Military Airlift Squadron, participating in missions around the world. These included retrieving victims of the Jonestown massacre from Guyana, supporting Chad in North Africa, and assisting in the Grenada invasion. His experiences were both dangerous and impactful, highlighting the global nature of his work.

Balancing Family and Career

Hess's career often meant long periods away from his family, which caused concern for both him and his wife. He turned down opportunities with the Secret Service and NASA’s Space Shuttle program to accept a position as an instructor pilot in Texas, training future fighter pilots from NATO countries.

Transition to Commercial Aviation

In 1987, Hess joined Delta Air Lines and began ground school in Atlanta. He also started a 12-year stint with the Mississippi Air National Guard, flying during Desert Storm and post-9/11 Middle East operations. He retired from Delta in 2018 and continued his career by developing aviation businesses and flying for various clients.

International Adventures

The second half of the book details Hess's international travels, ferrying planes from sellers to buyers across the North Atlantic, South America, and Africa. Over his 28-year military career, he accumulated 28,000 flight hours, showcasing his extensive experience.

A Wealth of Aircraft Knowledge

Aircraft enthusiasts will appreciate Hess's detailed descriptions of various planes, including the T-37 twin-engine jet, T-38 supersonic jet, F-15 Eagle, C-141 Starlifter, and A-10 Warthog, among others. His knowledge of both military and commercial aircraft is impressive.

Personal Reflections

Beyond technical details, Hess shares memories of his growing family, including moving multiple times to live in different states. He also earned a bachelor’s degree in computer science and mathematics and an MBA, demonstrating his commitment to education.

Relationships and Lessons

Hess reflects on the people he met throughout his life, from airplane mechanics to corporate moguls. He emphasizes the value of each relationship, noting that some stay for a long time while others are brief. He believes that each connection serves a purpose, even if it is not immediately apparent.

A Dedication to Love

Hess dedicates his book to his wife of 50 years, Rosann, expressing gratitude for her support during his frequent absences. Her patience and understanding were crucial to his success, both professionally and personally.