My life has forced me to resign as head AvA admin. I no longer have time to dance the skies on laughter-silvered wings. A new wife, two amazing new boys, my new family, a recent new job - all taking its toll on my ability to lead the greatest arena in Aces High.
I have spend thousands of hours here on the forums and even more online flying with most of you. Starting off by helping form the 412 Mustang, the Thirtheen TAS, then IIIJG2, then JG-54, and finally with the Gun Slingers. I've found out one thing about those who play Aces High - this is a family and I'm proud to be part of it. There are arguements, spats, but just as many friendships, gatherings, stories, and laughter.
Having been part of the Combat Theatre administration staff since 2001 and having led it for almost 5 years, its time for someone else to take the helm who has the same passion and care of this family.
I'm not going away, but just stepping down to let others do a better job than I have the past 8 months. I loved doing the steps, the wars, the historical settings - all trying to recreate history in the skies over England, Africa, Europe, or the Pacific.
I wanted to thank five special guys who really have done a tonne of work the past years in the background most are un-aware of. They're all volunteers - meaning there are NO perks to this work, other than to share their passion to recreate history.
Easyscor - this guy has been providing me with lots of excellent advice - and is the creator of the AvASML map - one of my favorites. And he did so all on his own time and without complaint.
Duke - has been with the AvA and a champion of the arena for almost as long as I have. His life has him relegated to advisory role but like me, wishes to do more when time is available. Duke's advice on how to deal with the forum and setups was always appreciated. Also, never fight Duke when he's in his P-40.
Slash - this guy has been with the AvA a long time and again recently as an advisor similiar to Duke who has played a key role in helping us balance the gameplay. His open opinions give the balance we needed to help us make decisions that were the best for the arena.
Soda - former squadmate from years ago, and lifelong friend, Soda has been extremely helpful with Oldman in maintaining the arena when I couldn't. He puts up setups without asking, fixes mistakes, and keeps his professionalism at all times. A good stick too, espcially in any Mustang or Luftwaffe aircraft.
Oldman. OM has been the backbone of the AvA as long as I have. We've flown together, shot one another down, yet his humble manners speaks volumes to his personaliy and dedication to the AvA. Similiar to Soda, he posts setups, fixes mistakes, and helps keep the AvA going. I'd fly into a hornets nest with OM without blinking and was glad to have him many times on my wing.
To the rest of you - 13 TAS, 412 Mustangs, IIIJG2, JG-54, and the Gunslingers (plus the countless squadrons who call the Combat Theatre (AvA) home, a big thank-you for beliving is us to help make the skies as real as possible.
I'm leaving you with a famous quote by a brave pilot who lost her life in the quest for the skies. Keep it real guys!
Motor cut. Forced landing. Hit cow. Cow died. Scared me.— Dean Smith, telegraph to his chief, quoted by Amelia Earhart,
