I started flying when I was a teenager. But did not have formal flight training until I entered Navy pilot training in 1997. However, I've been reading tradeaplane since 15 and renting airplanes on the weekends since I received my civilian ratings in 2000.

While at work, I've logged 392 carrier landings on 6 different aircraft carriers, been on 3 deployments (OIF and OEF), attended test pilot school and logged 2000+ hours in 50 different aircraft. Now, I have a steady test pilot job flying FA-18 E/F and EA-18G's.

My flying passion spread to my wife who ultimately decided that we needed to be aircraft owners. She was tired of renting too and we finally decided that we aren't getting any younger. Additionally, considering the direction of the country, I'm not sure if our freedom to fly will be the same as it is today in ten years. So it was time to act.

My son and daughter love to fly in our V35. And with another baby due in June, our V35 will be able to easily handle the entire family on trips.

GA is a great community and one that I enjoy very much. And the Bonanza community is unique in itself. I've flown many different airplanes and the Bonanza is simply one of the best flying and best performers in its class. It's great to be a part of the Bonanza family.

Matthew,
Welcome to BT.

Everyone here will agree with your impression of the Bonanza.

One thing though: you'll absolutely have to post some pictures of your V35....SOON!

for your wife. as for mine, who supports your interests.

Welcome, and thanks for your service.

I personally have inestimable regard for somebody who has the courage to trap on a carrier.

+1

You Da Man - Test Pilot..Looking forward to meeting you all at BeertoOSH Oshkosh.
your going to be there right

Matthew, welcome to BT. That is so cool your wife loves to fly. To tell you how much my wife enjoys it I have now moved to the 2 1/2 gallon zip lock backs for her to puke in! Maybe one day, just maybe one day!

Matthew,

Thanks for jumping in and thanks for your service.

Post often.

-MO

Matthew:
I too welcome you to the club. I share your career, TPS class 65, 1120 carrier landings, tested the T34C, TA7C, TAV8A, TA4F and many others at PaxRivr.

Bought my V tail 8 years ago and totally enjoy flying it to the many BPPP clinics, angel flight, shriner hospital missions, and for fun with family. We are at ORF...are you at St Marys in Lexington Park?

come join us at a BPPP clinic....next one is Columbus Ohio where John Glenn joins us each year. Maybe you would like to come to Richmond, VA in November.

Welcome Aboard Shipmate.

Kent Ewing
Captain/USN/Ret/V35 N5655D
President, BPPP Inc

Thank you for the warm welcomes. Yes, I'm trying to get to Oshkosh this year. I plan to fly my V35.

Capt. Ewing, I think you have me on the number of traps! I'm currently the IPT Test Lead for the EA-18G, AEA (airborne electronic attack) DH for all things Hornet (A-F) and also flying various test projects in FA18E/F at VX-31. This is my second tour at VX-31. It's a great job!

I'd love to attend one of the BPPP clinics. We'll certainly look at the schedule for both OH and VA. I hope to talk to you again.

Matt Menza
"CUBE"
N2793T

Am I the only one who's a little... intimidated... by sharing the virtual pub with the likes of these guys? I'm not worthy!

+1

Welcome to BT!

Congratulations on the stunning 35. Thank you for your service and congrats on the future child. I think i got em all

Striking Paint !

I know your going to love that plane and the freedom it brings.

The airplanes on this listserv are great, but the people are some of the best there are anywhere. Welcome aboard. Number of actual carrier landings 0, but I have dropped my plane in like a carrier landing many times.

+1