Video Description

In this episode, retired Navy pilot Fred Lewis shares his incredible journey from learning to fly a Cessna at BYU to launching jets off aircraft carriers during the Vietnam era. Fred takes us inside the high-pressure world of naval aviation—night landings on carriers, hair-raising near misses, aerial refueling, and dogfighting drills. Beyond the cockpit, Fred reflects on the camaraderie of his squadron, the sacrifice of fellow service members, and the lessons he carried into family life and beyond. From his first solo flight to serving aboard the USS Kitty Hawk, his stories reveal the grit, danger, and humor of life as a military aviator. 🎙️ Topics include: Getting started in aviation and Navy pilot training Surviving carrier landings and catapult launches Life at sea aboard the Kitty Hawk Aerial refueling, weapons systems, and dogfighting Reflections on Vietnam, Honor Flight, and military service If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to fly high-speed jets off a carrier deck, this conversation is packed with insight, adrenaline, and heart. Chapters: (00:00) Intro (02:32) Early life and love of flying (10:23) Basic Training & Flight School (25:26) Challenge of Carrier Approaches (36:37) Qualifying with Arrested Landings (40:40) Man Overboard Experience (46:45) Flying the A-7 Corsair II (50:16) Dogfighting and Gunnery Training (56:17) Transitioning to the A-7 Squadron (01:03:41) Life Aboard the Kitty Hawk (01:12:12) Night Carrier Landings (01:32:22) Dangers on the Flight Deck (01:41:47) Aerial Refueling (01:54:00) Investigating Fatal Crash (02:01:48) Vietnam Losses, Cost of Service (02:10:37) Honor Flight (02:17:22) Lessons and Reflections on Military Life If you or someone you know has a story to share, please reach out to [email protected] - we'd be honored to hear from you. Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4UvdMjkOkOgoHM2yIckhlh?si=dcb8d3f6ff96428a Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/curious-humanography/id1854840136 If you enjoyed this video, don’t forget to comment, like, subscribe, and share with your friends. Your support helps us grow and keep bringing you unfiltered, unheard, and real veteran stories that deserve to be told.