MAJOR NORMAN CONANT

REMEMBERING GEORGE W. BUSH . . .
In our Air Force pilot training program the students took the last half of
their training in the supersonic T-38. This training included flight by
instrumens, visual and aerobatic maneuvers, two and four ship formation, and
navigation. This was crammed into about 120 hours of flight time, much of
it solo. They also took academic (ground school) training that included the
subjects of aerodynamics, aviation physiology, aircraft engineering,
weather, leadership skills, Air Force organization, and intense physical
conditioning. To successfully complete this program required many months of
highly concentrated effort and the attainment of very exacting in-flight
skills.

All students completing this flight training were most certainly well above
average individuals. Just to qualify for entry into the program was a mark
of distinction and accomplishment.

After Lt. George Bush received his flight training, he was assigned to a
fighter squadron whose duty aircraft was the single engine F-102 all weather
interceptor. This assignment required that Lt. Bush fly radar intercept
missions against any aircraft that was violating our nation's airspace. He
was prepared to attack these aircraft if the necessity arose. These
missions were flown regardless of the prevailing weather conditions. This
hazardous duty required great skill and courage.