Go Bold #42: Stories from the Cockpit: Maj. Ridge Flick a USAF Weapons School Instructor Pilot and A-10C Warthog pilot

In Episodes 9 & 10 we had the honor to speak with retired United States Air Force Colonel Scott "SOUP" Campbell, a Wing Commander and fighter pilot who graciously shared his experiences and perspective on flying the incredible A-10 Warthog.At the end of that 2-part chat, we agreed to do another episode where we'd discuss in detail the newest variant of the Warthog, and that is the A-10C.In planning that follow on episode, Colonel Campbell recommended that I speak with an active duty pilot that he once commanded, because as SOUP said, he's one of the most talented A-10 pilot's that he knows.That person is U.S. Air Force Major Ridge "KELSO" Flick, who is our guest for this episode of Go Bold.Maj. Flick graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy, after which he did pilot training to become a fighter pilot.Today Maj. Flick is an A-10C Warthog pilot who has flown combat missions over Iraq, Syria and Afghanistan. He is a graduate of the U.S. Air Force Weapons School, and at the time of our chat he was a Weapons Instructor Pilot at the Air Force's Weapons School at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada.For those who don't know, being a Weapons School Instructor Pilot is the equivalent of being a University Professor who teaches PhD students -- collectively these folks are pilots who are among the elite in the United States Air Force.The U.S. Air Force Weapons School trains tactical experts and leaders to control and exploit air, space and cyber on behalf of the joint force. The weapons school mantra is: "humble, approachable and credible". These folks form a band of trusted advisors and problem-solvers that lead the Department of the Air Force and enables it to integrate its combat power seamlessly alongside those of other military services. Maj. Flick embodies the tenets of the Weapons School mantra, and he graciously shares his time with us to describe his experiences of training, leadership, and in flying the mighty A-10C Warthog.The A-10C configuration incorporates modern avionics which enable the use of precision weaponry.As Maj. Flick says, the A-10C is a "1st Gen fighter with Gen 4++ avionics".Maj. Flick describes how the A-10C systems - like the moving map, helmet mounted sight, and targeting pod - provide enhanced situational awareness and functionality which makes the A-10C incredibly effective as a Close Air Support and attack aircraft.You'll hear first-hand perspective on flying the A-10 and what its like to shoot its amazing GAU-8 30mm cannon. You'll also hear about the A-10 syllabus at the Weapons School.It's a great conversation from one of the best in the business, so we thank Maj. Flick for his time and insight.Be sure to listen to our next episode where Maj. Flick shares some of his experiences of flying the A-10C in combat!The A-10 community says ATTACK, and we echo that with GO BOLD!