Whitey was one of those rare people that you are fortunate to meet. He changed our outlook and enriched our lives, "...a 20 year old trapped in a 62 year old body."
Whitey and I flew many times together, riding in his T-6 or C-45, the DOW airplane, sport biplanes, Warbirds, AH. We've spent many hours talking about flying and life in general. We met at an FBO counter in Colo Spgs, CO, in 1994. He was filling up the DOW C-185 and I'd just jointly purchased a sport biplane with some military buddies. As usual with Whitey, a friendly conversation started. Before we parted at that first meeting, we'd agreed that Whitey would teach me how to fly a taildragger in exchange for my sharing my experiences and showing him some air combat tactics. That was the beginning of a great friendship.
His enthusiasm for living and caring was hard to match. A short time ago he said, "Mike, I only have one regret in life...I never got to fly a P-51..." He smiled and looked away...
If ever there was a reincarnate fighter pilot from WWII, it was Whitey. He'd have been an ace and a national hero. He's certainly a hero in anyone's eyes who ever shared their life with him. Only two weeks ago he was talking about another motorcycle trip and where he'd fly this month. I think he knew he'd "brief it but never fly it." Phyllis, his wonderful wife, has been his confidant and spirit. She was always there and has always shared and supported his zest for life and adventure.
Phyllis and the family, our prayers and support.
Whitey, I know you're probably working on that P-51 ride right now...
Knfe Out
