A Pilot and His Toys (Ep. 1)

As I've talked with more and more pilots and "avgeeks" during my time flying, I have realized a common theme among us all. Growing up, we all had some form of airplane model(s) or toy(s) in our possession. For me, die-cast airplanes were the dominate play-things in my toy chest. In fact, the very first toy that I received was a popper-airplane, when I was still in the hospital shortly after my birth.

From here, the collection "snowballed." As I progress through my journey to becoming a professional pilot, I feel the need to reflect on the things of my past, the things that have led me to where I am today. I'll start by showing off this neat little toy...

This plane, believe it or not, was the object of my affection for WEEKS before I acquired it. It all started during one of my many trips to the National Warplane Museum. My parents and I perused the gift shop one day, and this little guy caught my eye. It was SO COOL! First of all, it looks like a WWII fighter plane. Second, you can see through it. Last but not least, you can pull it back, release it, and the machine gun rattles like it's firing! I was hooked.

For weeks, I was patient and behaved. I can't recall exactly what else I did in that time, except pine for this toy, but the day finally came and my parents bought it for me. I was (and still am) the happiest boy on Earth for owning this little charm.