Thank you from a heli-tanker pilot

The cover of our July 20 issue featured Mark LaCiura's photo of W.D. piloting the CH-47.

Someone sent me a photo of a CH-47 I was flying that made the news in Kern County. Not an uncommon experience since I fly that large heli-tanker in and around Los Angeles.

I had a little chuckle though because my big head sticking out the side bubble of the helicopter made the news. I'm there because I'm paid to do a job and paid well.

The real news story is the people of Tehachapi. We had such a warm welcome there.

Someone left a $200 gift card at Starbucks for any firefighters. So my coffee and breakfast sandwich were free, despite my protest and request that the barista give it to someone else. She wasn't having any of that. Another unknown person or persons had pizza delivered to every helicopter crew on the airfield.

We ate at Jake's Steakhouse every night for three reasons: the service was great, the food was great and they gave us 30% off. That's a huge discount for a restaurant in a small town.

We were approached and thanked or offered warm and welcoming comments on many occasions.

I was inspired to say thank you to your town. We are not the news. You all definitely are. Thank you so much for the hospitality.

Cheers,

W. D.