I was blessed to be able to attend the General Daniel Chappie James Flight Academy 3 times as a young boy (1998, 1999, 2000). The skills learned and the classroom/hands-on instruction learned during my time at the camp inspired me to continue to explore my interest in the aviation industry. I was able to pilot my very first airplane on graduation day at the camp, and that was an experience that I would never forget. Had it not been for the leadership and unselfish attitudes of Captain Curtis as well as the other staff members, I may not have been as inspired to pursue the career in aviation that I am able to enjoy today. Now a licensed commercial pilot, that passion for flying was first cultivated during my weeks at the Flight Academy. I’ve been fortunate enough to be able to give back, just as I was first given to. I have served as a staff member for many years, and while I was attending Auburn University in the flight program, I was even able to fly airplanes down to Pensacola and perform graduation flights for the students in the academy. The Flight Academy has left a truly indelible mark on my life, and I will always be grateful for the experiences I was able to have there.