I think you missed my point, dport.
It takes a certain amount of arrogance, bravado and mischieviousness to strap on a fighter and fly
"regular" missions, let alone demonstration routines.
The last thing you will hear me say is that these folks, thier crew chiefs, or support troops are anything but consumate professionals. They get the job done year in, year out, with utterly amazing flying safety stats! Especially when you consider the profiles they fly.
I am damned proud to have a nephew, call sign Reload (when flying F/A-18's off USS Nimitz)
whom was very high up in the selection process for the Blues back in the 90's.
He didnt make the team, but just that he got to the final stages of selection makes me an incredibly proud ol uncle.
He has since transitioned to Naval Reserves, and is an instructor pilot, and full Commander at age 37. He also flys for a major airlines.
DaddyDett