My father was a pilot in the United States Air Force during WWII and served in Asia flying a C-46 over the Himalayan Mountains in a region known as the Hump. Although it has been over seventy years since that time, I still consider him a soldier. This is dedicated to him and all those who fought with him to defend this great nation.
The Last Flight
They came from every direction
From families large and small.
They launched out on a mission
And answered their nation’s call.
They flew on wings made of steel,
And the dangers of war they faced.
Strong hands controlled their craft
As those powerful engines raced.
In time the great conflict was won
Although costing a terrible price,
As too many members of the band
Made life’s ultimate sacrifice.
Now time has become the enemy.
Years have so quickly passed by,
Witnessed by losses in the ranks
Of that old gang that used to fly.
Yet in the minds of all who remain,
Keen remembrance of days before,
When they took great metal birds
And through the clouds did soar.
There is one very special mission
All old pilots are required to take.
The call comes from Headquarters.
It’s a flight that we all must make.
This one last flight is like no other,
For our God has planned the way.
He alone will determine the place
And choose the time and the day.
When Operations sends out the call
Those pilots who have sailed on air,
Will take their last earthly flight,
To a place that God has prepared.
Roger Allen Cook
Dedicated to the members of the Hump Pilot’s Association and American aviators everywhere. Rev. Cook is the son of Floyd T. Cook, pilot,12th ComCar Sq. 3rd Gp. Myitkyina, Burma
Roger Allen Cook is the Pastor to seniors at Southside Baptist Church in Warner Robins, Ga. He was formerly the administrator of a Christian school in Michigan for 42 years. He has four children and 15 grandchildren. Roger has written two books, Into Deeper Grace and Sailing by Grace – A Journey of the Heart. He also loves to write about stories of faith and God’s grace. If you would like read more of these stories you will find them here.
Feature photo by Wallpaper Safari
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