Jerry O. Cook

A pilot masters his craft as flight instructor before setting out to Vietnam in a fruitless attempt to engage and best Russian MIGs in aerial dogfights during the Vietnam War. His riveting tales include the unusual chapters entitled 'Politicians and War (a deadly combination)' and 'Guardian Angel?' This book is written in an understated fashion but has much to impart about the air war fought away from the news cameras and the blustering personalities encamped in front of them.

* The true adventure tales of a U.S. Air Force fighter who flew more than 400 combat hours while on duty in Vietnam
* Provides a rare insider's glimpse into the world of the flying elite, detailing their education, training, emotions, and day to day experiences
* Poignant, sometimes funny, brutally honest, always exciting, and an eye-opening look at one of the most tumultuous eras in U.S. history.
Brig. Gen. Jerry W. Cook, USAFR, Ret., has been flying for more than thirty-eight years. After ten show more years in the U.S. Air Force, he left in 1967 to fly for Pan American World Airways. Cook flew for sixteen years with the Arkansas Air National Guard, retiring as a brigadier general in 1986. He lives in Little Rock, Arkansas, and is a corporate pilot for Stephens Group, Inc.

Beginning back in 1942 when, at age 5, he was mesmerized by a shiny Lockheed P-38 doing loops over his backyard, Jerry Cook dreamed of becoming a fighter pilot. Against tough odds, he pursued his ambition with single-minded zeal, becoming one of the best and brightest candidates in the Air Force Aviation Cadet Program in the mid-1950s. Even after his inauspicious first night solo flight - when his equipment failed but he somehow managed to land safely - Cook never wavered from his goal. Eventually, he attained Nirvana (or so he thought) when he was assigned to duty in Vietnam. Finally, he would be able to use all of his training and skills. By the time his one-year hitch was up, he had flown more than 400 combat hours. During those days, he survived more near-misses than he cares to remember - somehow maintaining his wry sense of humor in spite of everything.
With rare wit, candor, and insight, Cook shares his personal experiences as one of flying's most elite group, recounting the days leading up to his distinguished military career, as well as his tour of duty in Vietnam. A compelling slice of history as well as a revealing insider's account of the rarefied world of fighter pilots, this is also a coming-of-age story of desire, determination, and dedication played out against a background of political unrest and moral uncertainty. show less

Equipping everyone in the Church to serve; applying Biblical principles to real people seeking real love, real acceptance and real forgiveness. A book full of hope and help for everyone, from Christians looking for reality in their Churches, to Pastors and leaders seeking to provide that reality.

revised & updated with an included study guide
understanding who the Church should be.......people who are redeemed, filled with the Holy spirit, and equipped to serve to meet needs everywhere in Jesus' name