Flying the Legends On March 9,1 flew a U.S. Navy DC-9 aircraft into Doha, Qatar, to pick up passengers to take to Muscat, Oman. It wasn't until I arrived in Doha and the passengers started to board the aircraft that I realized it was going to be a very special mission. I was flying the "Legends of Aerospace" — astronauts Neil Armstrong, the first man on the moon; Gene Cernan, the last man on the moon; and Jim Lovell, the Apollo 13 commander, with panel host David Hartman, the former Good Morning America host. I flew them to Muscat, where carrier airborne aircraft, C-2s, were waiting to take them out to USS Eisenhower. The next day proved to be even better when I returned to Muscat to pick up the legends and fly them to Bahrain. This flight was much longer, allowing each of the astronauts time to sit in the cockpit and share their experiences. In 20 years of flying for the Navy, this proved to be the biggest honor this lieutenant commander has experienced. I'm stationed in Fort Worth, Texas, and was on a five-week deployment in Bahrain. I'm set to retire from the Navy at the end of June. Herbert Hasell, ME 90 Fort Worth, Texas
distribution for use of the water is contested by the three states affected. This type of problem will be even greater when interbasin transfers are involved. Until actions are taken to solve the financial and political problems, the engineering solutions will have to wait. Herbert H. Rogers, CE 48 Douglasville, Ga.
Mistresses of Patience "Mistress of patience in husband engineering" degrees were awarded to the wives of WWII veterans receiving their degrees. Lila, my dear late wife of over 62 years, really earned her degree by earning a living, handling the household, caring for the social obligations and raising our son to kindergarten graduation while pushing me through Tech. Many others probably did likewise and many are, like the veterans, leaving the scene. Carroll C. Underwood, EE 56 Camilla, Ga.
Creationism Left Out of Article I read [the January/February] article Science Road Show, and I am disappointed by the bias shown in the article. While I believe it is hard not to reveal one's views and opinions in their writing, it appeared to me Harry Kroto's visit to Georgia Tech was used as a platform for Darwinism. While Mr. Kroto is one authority on this
14 Georgia Tech Alumni Magazine
May/June 2010
Herbert Hasell flew the "Legends of Aerospace," including Gene Cernan, the last man on the moon, left, and Jim Lovell, the Apollo 13 commander.
topic, I believe the article attempted to squelch other views of how our universe and man was created. There are respected scientists throughout the world that strongly endorse a Christian approach to creation. While it is difficult to answer this question in a one-page article, I think it is important not to discount others who hold this opinion as backward and nonsensical. I feel a better approach would be a dialogue that fosters revealing the "truths" of both viewpoints. My opinion is our ALUMNI MAGAZINE is a place where we foster our passion for the Institute and address the problems our society faces by using science, technology and logic, not just opinions. Stephen Watts, IE 01 Marietta, Ga.
Humbling Occasion May I please add my comments to Foster Watkin's letter [Reflections of a 'Golden Oldie,' January/February]? The events for our 50fh reunion Oct. 16-17 were well planned and executed by Jessica Battista and Jennifer Eames; our fearless fundraiser, John Howard; and our outstanding supporter, Pam Trube, who frequently reminded the committee members to encourage attendance and giving. Dr. Peterson is a real mover and will be an outstanding president and advocate for Georgia Tech. Just read his vision for our school! Our reputation as one of the best
institutions of higher learning in the world surely will only get better. I still wonder where 50 years has gone since my father put me on a train in Monroe, La., gave me $5 for a cab and told me to get off in Atlanta and that the driver would help with my trunk. (Fat chance.) My Homecoming was a memorable and humbling occasion. How did I ever get this wonderful education, enjoy the many activities and meet so many great people from all corners of the country? Armand E. Breard, ME 59, MS IM 62 Monroe, La.
Fencing Legacy It was great to see the article in the November/December magazine on fencing [Good Swordsmanship] as well as the alumni responses full of memories of fencing at Tech in times before. As one of the students who founded the current version of the fencing club, I was dismayed to see that there was no fencing presence on campus when I got there in 2003. I'm so glad that the club is thriving and continuing to grow. If I might be so bold, seeing this article made me feel like I left a legacy on campus, one that hopefully many more generations of Tech students will be able to experience. I'd also like to thank the current club leaders for keeping everything going so well. Haining "Helen" Yu, BME 07 New York