Spotlight Editor AWR1 Ronald Pierpoint, USN Enjoy a Q&A with one of our Editors, AWR1 Ronald Pierpoint! • Editor Since: October 2022 • Location: San Diego, California • Past Squadrons/Commands: HSM-41 & HSM- 77 • Favorite Tour: HSM-77, in 2019 Combat Element "Tactical Tanukis" • Favorite EP: Unusual Attitude Recovery • Favorite Color: Green • Favorite Food: Pizza • Favorite Hobby: Spending time with my wife, Sarah, and our three dogs Hakuba, Yuzu, and Lala
Why did you decide to become a Rotor Review Editor? Great question! A mentor approached me to see if I would be interested in being an editor for Rotor Review and at the moment I didn't give it any thought and just answered with, "Yeah, of course!" I'm glad I joined the team because not only did it allow me to meet some amazing people in the military and civilian sectors, but I also am able to be part of a community that is passionate about discussing and expressing topics of interest for our rotary brothers and sisters.
What is your favorite memory in Naval Aviation? That's a hard question to answer! There are a ton of amazing memories that come to mind. If I had to choose one, I'd have to choose my last flight at HSM-77. I was lucky enough to fly with one of my best friends in the cabin and also with two amazing pilots and leaders in the cockpit. There's a saying in the community, "If you don't climb Mount Fuji during your tour, you'll definitely get orders to come back to Japan,” or
Rotor Review #162 Fall '23
something along those lines. I was not fortunate enough to climb Mount Fuji while I was stationed in Japan. So, what's the next best thing? Flying as close to Mount Fuji as legally allowed, and as high as the weather and the limits of NATOPS allowed. Thankfully it was a clear day and all of us were able to enjoy not only Mount Fuji, but also the neighboring cities, beaches, shrines, castles, and each other's company one last time together. I honestly can't think of a better place to enjoy a helicopter flight.
What are your goals for the future? There are several goals that I've set for myself in the future, but the one current and near-future goal I am currently tackling is to complete my Bachelor of Science Degree in Kinesiology, with an emphasis in Fitness Specialist at San Diego State University in the next two years.
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