My aviation career began in the USAF in 1956 and I served for 8 years. I flew the T-33, F-86, and F-102, as well as other aircraft. After the military, I was hired by Braniff International in Dallas, Texas in 1965.
I served with Braniff International as a captain for a number of years and it ended with the bankruptcy of Braniff in 1982. While serving with Braniff as a first officer, I was hijacked between Houston and Dallas on Jan. 12, 1972. This hijacking ended successfully and the entire crew was presented with the Department of Transportation's Award For Distinguished Service by FAA Administrator John Shaffer in March 1972.
I was privileged to have been hired by Piedmont Airlines in 1983 beginning as a second officer.
Due to Piedmont's rapid expansion, I made captain again after serving around three years as a second officer and first officer. The Braniff pilots that were hired by Piedmont were all very appreciative of the opportunity to fly with this great airline after the Braniff bankruptcy in 1982. Piedmont Airlines was very unique and had a very good reputation for excellent customer service, an outstanding marketing system, and a corporation that enjoyed superior relations between management and employees. It was truly a family atmosphere. Mr. Davis and his management crew ran a outstanding airline and I was indeed privileged to work there. I feel that all of the Braniff pilots that were hired by Piedmont feel the same way.