slotperfect 7 #1 June 19, 2004 Today's second jump is a perfect example of why I do tandems . . . SFC Frank Pelaez (Retired), now 81 years young, retired from active duty in 1968 with 21 years of service. His last jump as a Paratrooper with the 504th Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division, was in 1967 - jump #36. As a volunteer at the Airborne & Special Operations Museum in nearby Fayetteville, North Carolina, Frank was interviewed by the Fayetteville Observer about his experience as a Paratrooper and Glider Troop. During the interview, he mentioned that he would love to jump again one day. One thing led to another, and that word got to Gene Paul Thacker, Patriarch at Raeford Parachute Center, who invited him to come out and make jump #37. I was lucky enough to be his Tandem Instructor for his return to the big blue skies. Frank, all of 5'6" tall and 140 lbs, was wearing his complete khaki Army uniform, ribbons and all, and his Corcoran jump boots (highly shined, of course). He arrived early, and brought a huge entourage of family and friends. Even Rodger Mullen from the Fayeeteville Observer came out to write a follow-up article. My good friend and fellow dotcommer Arvel Shults (BlueSBDeath) stepped up to assume duties as camera flyer. Two Golden Knight has-beens and a veteran Paratrooper, with over 160 years between the three of us. Frank's strength and agility were amazing, and after protecting his uniform with a jumpsuit, we boarded the Twin Otter. The entire jump went off without a hitch. It was a real treat to see how amazed he was at his brand new free fall experience, while reacquainting himself with other parts of the jump that were familiar from so long ago. Tandems like the one today with Frank reinforce my reason for doing tandems in the first place - to share the experience of skydiving with anyone who chooses to meet the challenge. They come from all walks of life, choosing to skydive for many different reasons. And occasionally, they become uniquely special for me. Frank now stands as my oldest Tandem Student . . . I can only look to the future and wonder . . . what's next?Arrive Safely John Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
efs4ever 3 #2 June 20, 2004 QuoteTandems like the one today with Frank reinforce my reason for doing tandems in the first place - to share the experience of skydiving with anyone who chooses to meet the challenge. They come from all walks of life, choosing to skydive for many different reasons. And occasionally, they become uniquely special for me. Amen. I got to take my 71 year old former Boy Scout Leader from overseas on one a while back. Best feeling in the world. Of course the same feeling was there for T # 714 today with Mary Alice, who was just the next person in line to give it a try! Russell M. Webb D 7014 Attorney at Law 713 385 5676 https://www.tdcparole.com Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
bertusgeert 1 #3 June 20, 2004 Thats awesome! Older people that skydive amazes me, and I will one day strive to be like them. I saw a lady show up one day with her grandson, and silly me thought that she was there only to watch her grandson tandem (she bought him his bday gift). I get on the load, and see grandma get on it with me! It was awesome, she was 86, and aparently some kind of national champion from back in the day. It was awesome watching an 86 y.o lady jump out of a plane before her grandson! --------------------------------------------- As jy dom is moet jy bloei! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
steve1 5 #4 June 20, 2004 I watched an elderly lady who must of been in her 80's if not 90's make a tandem at Perris, several years ago. They brought her out of the training area in a golf cart because she had trouble walking. She looked really cute in her jump suit and frap hat. When she was under canopy a loud cheer went up from the packing area. I hope to have that kind of courage when I get that age....Steve1 Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
BlueSBDeath 2 #5 June 22, 2004 John, It was a pleasure to do that video and jump with such a great American!! In my photo gallery is a Frank folder with some screen captures from my PC-330. I have not seen the 35mm film yet, but I will bet they are much better!! Thanks again for the oportunity to participate with this Hero!! Keep up the good work! ArvelBSBD...........Its all about Respect, USPA#-7062, FB-2197, Outlaw 499 Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
