The Fini Flight

Matt finally enjoyed his Fini ("fini"shed) Flightin the T-6 in December. Unfortunately, due to communication difficulties, we didn't make it out to the ramp to see the taxi in, but we did get there just as they were exiting the aircraft.



Here are Matt and Paris "Toad" Hollis. They flew in one plane of the twoship formation. Along with them were friends and fellow IPs James "Storm" Killian (also on his Fini Flight) and Andrew "Bean" Pellegrin. They were able to take the planes for the entire day and head to San Antonio for their favorite burger joint, Chester's. What a day at work, right?



Out of the plane, Matt safely stows his patches as he knows just what is coming next...

...the cold water spray blasting from a fire extinguisher, courtesy of Matt "Jigga" Lowe, who will also be in Matt's upcoming IFF and RTU classes.

All is well between friends though, especially considering my Matt will probably get this Matt back the next week (when he has his own Fini Flight)!

Lots of students and fellow IPs showed up to watch the production and show support. Thanks everyone! (They also knew that showing up would mean they could partake in the Qdoba goodness that would follow without feeling guilty...).

Here we are with the Killian family, left to right is Courtney, Jacob, Connor, James, Matt, and me. They have been our best Texas friends. They began their assignment here just before us and we have been right beside each other the whole way. They moved on to their new assignment in December, just a week after this Fini. We definitely miss them a lot, but have plans to "see you soon" often. The friendships are definitely the best part about the Air Force from a spouse perspective. You meet a lot of great people, and even though you move apart, you know they will always be there for you and vice versa.

Courtney with little Jacob all tucked away napping.

The squadron commanders spoke about James and Matt. It was great to hear their words of affirmation about James' and Matt's work here as well as the faith they have in them for what they will accomplish in the future.

After all the formal stuff had passed, it was time for Qdoba tacos and beer. As usual, Matt teaches Connor all kinds of valuable life skills. I know Courtney and James will sorely miss these life lessons while they are away. :)