Was at Landmark Aviation today...here's a letter I wrote to my mentor telling what happened:
I'm standing off to the side of the hall to let a large group of wealthy looking people pass (I was hoping if I bumped them a few $100 bills would fall on the ground) on their way to NBAA. Next thing I know there's a slight bump from the side...I turn to excuse myself for their mistake when it's none other than Bob Hoover! I couldn't believe my eyes. There's no figure higher to me in aviation as a pilot than Mr. Hoover. I quickly apologized and said it's an honor to 'bump' into you. He then shook my hand and we had a 7-8 minute conversation about hardly anything. I said how great the commander routine was, he asked what I'm flying, what I wanted to do and where I was from. We talked about airplanes, where he was going and about the Eclipse jet parked outside.
What a wonderful and genuine guy. I'd heard so many great things about him and he actually took the time to ask ME questions about myself. I couldn't believe it that Bob Hoover wanted to know about me! I really felt like the big cheese of the FBO. Basically all the pilots knew who he was and I caught many eyes peering our way as I made small talk with the great Bob Hoover. The other pilot I was with came over after he excused himself to hop on a Lear and ask what the heck I could talk with Bob Hoover about. There was another guy with him, and I can't pick out a name. He is a retired Brigadier General and P-51 Ace but for the life of me I couldn't and still can't come up with a name. I addressed him as General, he shook my hand and said he was surprised that someone would recognize him given present company. Hopefully he never finds out I'm blanking out on his name.
If you could help me out with the other guy...I absolutely recognized him. He has rather dark skin, dark hair and a squared off chin. Maybe 5'8 and obviously still alive.
