We launched at 1510 and flew under around a maze of restricted areas toward New Bern, NC. For the first thirty miles, we flew below our normal "pattern altitude", looking down for alligators, up for F18s and around for each other. Two hours and 100 miles later, we landed in the Neuss River, just as the sun set over the Craven County control tower, one mile away.
After securing both aircraft, Ron welcomed us aboard his boat in true "Marine Corps style", a nice cold beer! A scenic fifteen minute ride to Ron's house had Bob ducking as we sped under bridges, just missing them by what seemed only inches.
Day one was a complete success. 393 miles of "slow flight" followed by a most enjoyable visit with good friends. It was fun catching up on our years apart.
