From the Right Seat
Chief Pilot Emeritus Peter Rafle
I Flew
When the last checklist is run and the bag drag is over
I will reminisce of the days I once knew
I will not remember the 3 am alerts
But only that I flew!
I will not remember the crew rest in tents
Nor recall how cold Arctic winds blew,
And I’ll try not to remember the times I got sick.
But only that I flew!
I will never forget when nature became angry
And challenged my intrepid crew,
And I’ll always remember the fear I felt
And the pride in knowing I flew!
I will remember the sights my mortal eyes have seen
Colored by multitudes of hues,
Those beautiful lights on cold winter nights
Seen only by those who flew.
God was extremely good to me
And let me touch his face,
He saw my crew through war and peace
And blessed us with His grace.
So, when I stand at St. Peter’s Gate
And tell him that I’m new
I know he’ll smile and welcome me,
Because he knows
I FLEW!
Brad Baker