Chuck Hanson Retires
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Author: Chuck Hanson
Released 7 February 2006
Chuck Hanson with Crew
Photograph Contributed by Chuck Hanson
Photograph contributed by Chuck Hanson
I had a Great Retirement celebration yesterday on my final flight from San Diego to Oakland.
It started in Long Island, New York at 6:00 am and flew to Chicago's Midway Airport; then non-stopped to San Diego, where I commenced the final leg of my 38 year career. I've enjoyed a great ride here at Southwest Airlines, while encountering very little turbulence along the way.
There were professional photographers at both Oakland & San Diego, along with plenty of well wishers. The plane was 100% full, and the weather was fantastic at both ends. I was given one of our newest aircraft with the latest Canyon Blue paint job, so I'm sure the "Water Cannon" hose down will come out great in the pictures. The "Water Bridge" was very special for me, and I'd always wondered what it would feel like to do the "Bird Bath" on my final flight.
All the aircraft controllers were aware that it was my last flight, so we got special priority treatment and direct routing across the USA. Their final goodbye's were bittersweet, but the memories I will cherish forever. Thanks to everyone who were a part of this special time in my life...
The entire three day trip was very surreal and I'm sure it'll finally hit me in a couple weeks, that that was the final, finito, finish.
Now that graduation has finally come and gone, it's time to start a new & different career. But my first priority is to get the "old" body back in shape; yup, that's priority #1. It's time to trade this "keg" belly in for a trimmer "six pack"..... sound familiar???
Photograph Contributed by Chuck Hanson
So I better wind this letter up right now and start my stretching routine....
Thanks again for the lifetime of memories....
Chuck Hanson
Skywarrior@alamedanet.net
Chuck was a pilot with the Aramco Aviation Department in the 1980's.