Brian Shul - From Butterflies to Blackbirds

Brian Shul uses photos and stories as a vehicle to tell an inspired story of hope, overcoming obstacles and daring to dream. From lying near death in the jungles of Southeast Asia to flying the world’s fastest jet, Brian shares his amazing journey in an unforgettable presentation that not only reveals fascinating details of piloting the SR-71, but a meaningful message on life’s opportunities as well.
Born in Quantico, VA in 1948, Brian graduated East Carolina University in 1970 with a degree in History and Anthropology. Flying close air support missions in Viet Nam, he flew 212 missions before his aircraft was shot down. Severely burned in the crash he was given little chance of survival. He spent one year in hospitals, endured 15 reconstructive surgeries and after countless hours of physical therapy, Brian surprised his doctors and returned to flying jets. In addition, he flew the A-7D, and was in the first A-10 squadron, becoming an airshow demonstration pilot. Brian also taught at the Air Force’s TOPGUN School and culminated his Air Force career with selection to fly the world’s premier spy plane, the SR-71. This was a remarkable accomplishment considering that it required an astronaut physical to qualify for the plane that routinely flew above 95% of the earth’s atmosphere. Only 93 Air Force pilots in history ever flew the SR-71, still the fastest plane ever built. Brian flew the Blackbird for 4 years and was the pilot who provided key photos of Libyan terrorist camps to President Reagan during the Libyan Crisis in 1986 when he became the only SR-71 pilot ever to fly 3 missions in 3 consecutive days.
Brian retired from the Air Force in 1990, and pursued his writing interests. He wrote a book about flying the SR-71 and illustrated it with his own photography. It earned him the Aviation Book of the Year honors from the Smithsonian. He has written four other aviation books, for which he did all the flying, writing, and photography. He is the only man in America to have flown extensively with both the Air Force Thunderbirds and Navy Blue Angels in the making of those books. His Sled Driver book on the SR-71 is today the single most popular book on that plane worldwide.
Brian’s remarkable comeback story has inspired audiences nationwide. He is a recipient of the National Spirit of Freedom Award, the prestigious Silver Eagle Award, and last summer was inducted into the Air Force Legends Hall of Fame. He finished his flying career with 5000 hours, having flown the T-28A/B/C, AT-28D, A-7D, A-10, F-5B, F-100, F-15, and SR-71. Brian is the owner of Gallery One in Marysville, California where his nationally acclaimed nature photography is on display.

[@MelissaPalmer-zy5nh]

We lost Brian Shul this year. Rest in peace Brian. You served well and faithfully and earned your peace.

[@eruera52]

So sorry to hear of his passing. A great loss to humanity. His journey from pathos to the sublime is wonderfully uplifting and inspiring to the soul. Igniting hope and self-belief where none previously existed is miraculous on its own. Forever grateful to Brian Shul for sharing the story of his life so wonderfully lived. RIP

[@heathferguson3867]

So sorry to find out Brian's passing. I come back to this video for lesson's in life, there is more to achieve. Thank you Brian Shul. We will miss you.

[@jimmycarter2492]

Lived on Beale AFB when the Black Bird was assigned there, I was a kid then and started school at Lone Tree then went to the new middle school Far West . I had a classmate, his father was a Blackbird pilot, think his father was a Major, did you ever know a Major Cavata . My father was in SAC , a fire control tech on a B 52 . Loved the Black Bird, it was a beautiful aircraft, 64 now and I'll never forget it. Thanks for your service Sir , and your post was great and your humor is awesome, don't worry you won't wake up with fire and smoke, around you, when your time comes, Godspeed sir.🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@johnbartlett5442]

Just met him at Reno air races. He must have spent 20 minutes talking to my son and myself as if he knew us forever. Wonderful person. Got him to autographed his new book so it will be on display in my hanger.

[@wdwerker]

This is one of those videos you end up watching every few years again and again because it inspires you each time . Thanks Brian !

[@chickemtruck9500]

I'm a veteran and I was on the verge of suicide. Just for today I decided to live. Thanks for keeping us safe. Your story makes me want to try one to live one more day

[@michaeldamiano5856]

YOU MADE THE RIGHT DECISION.....BUSTING INTO ETERNITY UN INVITED WOULD GIVE YOU AN ETERNAL NIGHTMARE FULL OF IMPOSSIBLE REGRET....

[@libturdcrusher1776]

Glad you are here James.

[@zac3392]

James Liebherr Hey buddy hope ur ok

[@irn2flying]

Thank you for your service and endurance my friend. Wishing you all the best, and keeping you in my prayers... You are a valued, loved and unique soul. Please don't deprive the world of that gift.

[@topturretgunner]

James Liebherr we’ve got to hang there brother. Tomorrow might just bring a nice surprise. 👍

[@BobbyTucker]

I have watched this video of Brian Shul more times than I can remember, he does such a fantastic performance in this video he deserves an Oscar, the Humor is beyond reproach. I get the same feelings of awe this time as i did the first time. I hope everyone watching this gets the same enjoyment. Thanks so much for sharing this video and keeping it available for those who haven't watched it yet, and thank you for allowing me to comment on how much I appreciate it. For what it's worth, I've subbed, left a thumbs up, and a tap on the bell.

[@mikelucas2309]

As a 12 year old growing up here in NZ, I thought at the time our A4-Skyhawks the RNZAF were flying at the time were the bees knees. That all changed one day when I first laid eyes on a picture of the SR-71 in a book. Man I was mesmerised by it's sleek black shape and jaw-dropping speed. I wanted to fly one, but instantly following that thought, realised it would not be possible in this life time. The SR-71, in my book, will always be 'that' aircraft that holds a magical wonder and presence never to be repeated. A truly historical achievement! Your presentation Brian was exceptionally entertaining and thoroughly enjoyed.

[@davidkrieger6249]

I had the pleasure of meeting Brian at the Cleveland National Airshow in 1978. I was a senior in high school and Brian was flying the baddest aircraft at the show that day. The A-10 Warthog. While I never got to realize my dream of being a military pilot, I will remember Brian's grace that day answering a thousand questions from me. Thank you Brian. Salute.

[@airborne7275]

Utmost respect for Brian, but let's not forget our special forces ("put it down or we'll shoot it down") who are often put in the most difficult situations imaginable and never get to share the limelight. I thank and salute you all for your service and dedication.

[@TigerBigmo]

As an USAF instructor, I watched this man speak several times. He is a very talented and inspirational speaker. He spoke on medical care and being on the other side of the medical team. SHCS 1984-1991

[@OneLastHitB4IGo]

There is an SR-71A in our museum about 1 mi. from me that I've seen 5-6 times now. Each time I stand and look at it I get chills. One of the greatest pieces of aerospace technology ever created. Thank God Kelly Johnson worked for us and gave us the men like Brian who flew them. Almost impossible to comprehend being able to move at over 3,000 ft per second.

[@Wild_Danimal]

This man is one of the greatest speakers I’ve ever heard and most inspirational person I’ve ever seen

[@adrianinglis5922]

I could listen to Brian for days. I am so sad he is no longer with us. RIP mate!

[@russellwilliams4317]

This guy is seriously a hero and the definition of what a TRUE PATRIOT it is in the USA! No politics in his message. Simply love for flight, love for his country and a love for his brothers in arms. Truly remarkable.

[@mikecroly4579]

Thank you so very, very much Mr. Shul!!!

[@Aseem.Kumar.Shrivastav]

Can listen to this again & again. Again. Yet again. 💓

[@badllama8090]

Just an aircraft enthusiast, with a particular interest in the SR-71, but this was a brilliant video, shame it took me so long to find it & well done that man....

[@barrybarkley1316]

Much much respect for you and everyone involved in the blackbird! Thank you so much for your dedication and sacrifice for our great nation! We are free because of people like you! Semper Fi brother! I know your not a Marine, but you can be on my team anyday!

[@ralphhudson9020]

Thank you Brian and all of our vets,God bless each and every one

[@Superfitcouple]

A 23 year NSW guy here, that retired from a TBI I received courtesy of the Taliban and an IED, I LOVED hearing this life story. Blessings my friend

[@knightlife98]

Just an absolute amazing aircraft, the SR-71 was...!!! The head on picture, is always the best view of this aircraft!

[@onemala4620]

Thank you Brian Shul, for your sharing story and God Bless You.....BTW. Thank you for your SERVED...

[@reneluna5340]

Stopped here and was thinking I’ll watch a couple of minutes of this but ended up watching all of it twice, this guy is awesome and a stand up comedian, could listen to his stories for hours !!!!

[@kasper1g]

this guy is a great story teller and the fact that those are real stories makes it even better

[@danwillis2671]

Brian Shul was a national treasure and his passing was heartbreaking. I dont even know how many times I’ve watched his videos but Im inspired every time I do. God bless you Major, rest in peace.

[@citizenblue]

This man is a national treasure.

[@robkrone3772]

Incredible story about him changing his view point to wanting to live again and even more so that he was able to return to flying status and fly the SR-71. Truly inspirational!

[@oad51]

The best motivational talk I have ever listened to. Kudos to Brian Shul.

[@christianlohmann8577]

Thanks for sharing Brian, very impressive story you told and how you told. I love the SR 71; just a beauty even after the decades. A true masterpiece.

[@veanwhitcher7867]

Major Shul, you are a hero,God bless you for your service sir!

[@solesurvivorinthenewmillen787]

A true American hero and patriotic man IMO!

[@louisedingle9949]

Thinking of you today at Beale AFB in CA. Thankyou for loving me Shuly. ✈️♥️ See you at Arlington. 🦘

[@beerbomber1]

I believe this is the best KZbin video I have ever watched. Thank you.

[@rty1955]

Hey Brian, I watched because you met my best friend Eric the photographer. He met you and your dad while he was Doing infrared photography in Fl. He spoke extremely highly of you and how humble you are. I am glad I watched this, Eric was right!

[@netmeistr329]

Every once in a while you come across a real warrior-hero. I salute you sir.

[@jamesprestonuk]

Simply the best 52 minutes 39 seconds on the Internet.

[@bengayiii6928]

My hat is off to you, Brian! I've been honored to associate/be friends with many of America's heroes . . . you are certainly in their ranks!

[@Goffas_and_gumpys]

I have watched his presentation a few times and it never fails to give a laugh and a chill down my spine. Brian tells an awesome story, one that is backed up with knowledge and achievment. Well done sir.

[@fifteenbyfive]

That is the most gorgeous dreamiest machine I've ever seen. Everyone who had a hand in its project must have been so proud.

[@matthewpumphrey5624]

Freaking awesome, awesome, awesome, as a black army aviator to see the joy of this crew brings tears to my eyes. Understanding the challenges of this crew is history in dedication

[@ptgizmo]

As an Air Force veteran (‘77 to ‘87), stationed at Luke AFB with the 26th Air Defense Squadron, I got to watch the Blackbird take off out of Beale AFB (on radar). I watched the Blackbirds fly down the coast, make a huge arch to turn around and head north along the coast of California. The radar “data trail” for most commercial plans was about 1/2” long on the radar screen, but the Blackbird was just over 2” on the screen. It was so much fun to watch!

[@rodneycaupp5962]

I worked at Wright Patterson air Force Base for a while, and we were sworn to secrecy on the Black Bird. I'm here to tell you the best kept secret of all, concerning the SR 71. The damn thing is a Space Ship. You almost need a pressure suit just to stand next to it. Coolest Space Ship I ever saw.

[@michaelrodgers9419]

REST IN PEACE Brian Shul. Thank you for your service and your memories.

[@beagle7622]

This is 1 event I wish I had been at . This guy not only is not only interesting, his just a naturally funny guy. Incredible photos!

[@ronhatcher7734]

oh my, what a story....thank you. Best hour i've spent in years.

[@johnrapp9794]

how many navy pilots flew the sr-71

[@williamwormald6463]

Me too good hour well spent

[@j.thomas7128]

I was getting ready to write the same comment. Best spent hour in many hours.

[@dhritimansen3307]

Oh its true. Its damn true!

[@debramalkin6958]

My husband and I were stationed at Beale AFB at the same time as the SR 71. What an amazing thrill just to see those pilots walking around in their own special flight suits. Many times only at base air shows. You could get a good view from a reasonable distant with the cockpit draped in black always no pictures anytime !!! remember that was almost 40 years ago. Paul, my husband flew B-52 at that time, just the opposite in speed but very much needed in the Vietnam Combat. We were blessed with all the missions he flew to come back safe. Beale AFB was a phenomenal experience and we were lucky to had been there. D.Greene Malkin be there. Thanks for that speech. What a inspiration

[@NorCalProf1]

I worked in 456th A&E (armament and electronics, later called avionics) at Beale in 1968-9. B-52Gs, KCs, T-38s. But everybody on the flightline stopped what they were doing to watch when an SR taxied out for take-off or landed. Night take-offs were pretty spectacular and I saw plenty on swing shift. Also it was routine, as you know, to see SR's doing touch and go's and flying laps low around the base. Then I was sent PCS to Kadena but with 18th AMS (fighters, etc.) and the Habu was only ever visible a minute before takeoff and after landing under the extra security. They even stopped traffic around the base perimeter at the ends of the runway for a Habu take-off. I was always fascinated with this aircraft and have only recently learned way more than I ever knew about it due to its retired status and people like Brian Shul telling their stories.

[@alexandroslysais1798]

Q

[@bobsherrill2672]

I served at Beale AFB from jan 1965 till Aug 1666. Was the second person and first enlisted person in the 4200 SRW. We got the first SR-71 in Jan 1966.

[@cna430]

@@NorCalProf1 I was an A1C, then "Buck Sgt" assigned to the 966th Airborne Early Warning and Control Squadron (AEW&C) on McCoy AFB south of Orlando, FL in 1969-1971 as a AEW&C radar maintenance troop on the EC-121 Warning Star (Lockheed Super Constellation) Aircraft. McCoy AFB (now Orlando International Airport) was a SAC (Strategic Air Command) base with B-52 and KC-135 aircraft assigned. We were a tenant organization. There were two aircraft hangers on the base; one SAC, the other ADC (Aerospace Defense Command), which was "our" hanger. When one of your "Black Birds" would fly into our world, the birds were hangered in our space. We "young troops" were allowed to walk around and ogle the planes. They were magnificent! And the story I want to tell is that when your bird was ready to depart our station, they would roll out of our hanger, out to the taxi way and roll to the end of our 14,500 foot runway, lock brakes, run-up engines, light the burners and down the runway she would go. First of all, we radar troops were suppose to never fire our search and height finder radars through the antennas when testing on the ground. Our search radar had a calibrated 250 mile range. Our height finder radar had a calibrated 160 mile range. The antennas were slaved together and could sweep (turn 360 degrees) at 22 revolutions per minute. "On occasion," we would paint your bird as she was rolling down the runway to launch. IF and when we could "see" you once, and once again as she's climbing out, we could never "find" you again. How sweet it was... WE KNEW what speed was...

[@NorCalProf1]

@@cna430 Interesting story...once that Blackbird pointed its nose up look close because it is gone. My last 6 months in the USAF (1971-72) were in 552nd AEW&C at McClellan AFB in Sacramento, EC-121s, and I made several long term friends from the ratech crowd, who talked just like you in your story. Wonder if you attended any of the reunions of connie crews and personnel? I was at Las Vegas and San Diego supporting my friends who went. Did not work on the connies much myself...I was aircraft radio maintenance and was sent to Korat TDY on F-4s just before separation.

[@bocajhenry328]

I listen to this every night while working, to remind myself to make the most of the time we have left. It puts things into perspective for me.

[@avro549B]

"The cockpit; your basic '57 Chevy, nothing cosmic" - LOL

[@vilnisbrilcs9136]

Truly inspiring! I’ve got no reason to complain about my little aches and pains. Brian is not only a great pilot, but a great speaker!

[@Shotsmoky]

How in the world could 202 people down vote this video at the time of my viewing. What has happened in your life to make you even think about hitting the thumbs down button. A humble man recounting the remarkable story of his life in the most humble way. I hope not, but I suspect that most of you are Americans. You live in a country so great that it not only produced the SR 71, but more importantly, men like Brian Shul and Walter Watson. I cannot express in words how much better I feel after watching this. So here on Christmas eve 2019 I proudly salute Brian Shul, Walter Watson and The United States of America, and pray that those of you who down voted this video can find some peace and happiness in your lives.

[@dorsiestivers3100]

Guys like him are the reason I did a career in the navy and 50 years in aviation. They are few and far between . We need more like him.

[@johnhayden2969]

Great to see you again, Brian! I flew on your wing at Myrtle Beach AFB as a Butter Bar back in 1977...you haven't changed a bit. Keep clicking and check six!

[@lewisbloom]

Brilliant presentation, expert talker, funny, informative - could listen all day!

[@AndyBluSkydive]

If you liked that, you'll like this kzbin.info/www/bejne/bXzFhoGwnpprra8

[@stevengrayson9238]

you all probably dont care at all but does anyone know of a method to get back into an Instagram account?? I was dumb lost my login password. I would appreciate any tips you can give me!

[@wilsonstetson5261]

@Steven Grayson instablaster =)

[@stevengrayson9238]

@Wilson Stetson thanks for your reply. I got to the site thru google and im in the hacking process atm. Seems to take a while so I will get back to you later with my results.

[@stevengrayson9238]

@Wilson Stetson it did the trick and I finally got access to my account again. I am so happy! Thanks so much, you saved my ass :D

[@barrylooney1423]

What an absolute gent! 1 of 96 legends!

[@clayz1]

I still have Brian Shul’s two photography books on the SR71 that I purchased at the museum of flight in Seattle years ago. I don’t remember the occasion except that it was an air show, or a museum show about the SR71, but Mr Shul had a booth set up there and he was selling his books. I bought one of each, both signed by him.

[@shaunhenderson9434]

What a great video! Incredible story with a Mission... Attitude is EVERYTHING! Great Inspirational Speaker with Passion! Never get tired of watching and listening to Videos like this... Brian's life story Gives me inspiration to get off my Ass and try again when things go wrong; Love this guys get up and GO! America needs more people like this living, breathing, and breeding here.

[@daveroberts2296]

Thank you for your service for our country, Brian. I admire you.

[@stevepadilla9729]

What a great message of his life above ground for our safety, at times I felt like I was there and can see what he did. Blessed by his strength and will he found to want to live. If Brian Shul gave up, we would never know and others listening may not be alive from his message.

[@GEOPUZZLE]

I'm watching this almost 3 1/2 years late. Sir, thank you for the inspiration.

[@robertgutheridge9672]

Sir from one to another thank you for your service to our country. I also spent almost a year in a burn ward my whole chest right down to the ribs 2of mine are part stainless steel as well as my upper left leg front and back hip to knee. But my military career was a lot slower than yours 15 tango crew chief on another black aircraft but mine was a black hawk

[@burgtaylor3469]

Brother, you have led an adventurous life!

[@3rdFloorblog]

Absolutely love hearing this man's lectures & speeches. Awesome adventures...

[@hectore623]

Never gets old. Always good for a pick me up 😎

[@dadewar]

21 Years later I can still picture a Blackbird taking off from Milldenhall England Banking Left off the runway into that London Fog. I was a 12 year old walking home from school. The path home took me past the the runways. The image of the beautiful silhouette will forever be burned into my mind.

[@elvisnetterville836]

Glad to hear that he gives presentations. He's a natural at storytelling!!

[@raynus1121]

RIP Brian - thanks for the great ride-along.

[@orchidorio]

Watching this video was one of the most enjoyable hours I have ever spent. I especially liked his common man appreciation of fear and fun in such a high stakes game of cat and mouse. (4/21/20)

[@georgekhaziran]

Thank you sir Mr. Brian Shul for your heroic grand services to your country and free world, You are and your life is inspirational.

[@billstephenson6238]

OK

[@mtcrow4]

As a High Altitude Controller at Jacksonville ARTCC in the late 60's-early 70's, I had the honor of controlling the SR-71 when it came out of FL600 into the refueling track across Florida. Quite a privilege at that time that I will always remember. One of my favorite Aircraft also.

[@js6356]

Thomas Doyle hhjgz

[@js6356]

Thomas Doyle Pyg

[@tomlompa6598]

I bet it was

[@jess-ej2qh]

so sorry my son loves planes and somehow landed here! lol

[@alannapartin336]

so.. how many times did u tell em to assend to FL600 and they respond OK decending to FL600

[@petercoleman1658]

Started off watching stories about this awesome machine...& then stumbled across this guy. Wow.... Attitude IS everything... Thank you. Good watch. Cheers

[@butthead1536]

Was stationed in Okinawa in 71 at the Seebee base about a mile or so from the end of the runway. And one day one of the other mechanics told me to go stand outside the shop and watch for that big black bird takeoff, and when I heard them punch the throttles and took of over us and the steel on the roof just rattled and about 10 seconds after takeoff there was just to red dot going thru the clouds! WOW Also got to see one on final approach a sight the I will always remember as long as I live! A big tip of the hat to Brian!!!!!!

[@minuteman3]

There are 22 people without souls who have watched this video. What an inspiration this man is . Thank you Brian, you are an amazing airman, I am humbled to have served with you.

[@johnnieves8719]

I ask who the he’ll didn’t like this. This man can inspire a side walk to stand up a start running!

[@anthonycope8637]

Those old mig pilots that couldnt shoot him down

[@neutchain7838]

Most likely North-Korean people with blown-out ear drums lol

[@jamesdelavan9573]

That there is a real world Superhero. God Bless you, Sir. Thank you for your service, for my family.

[@KCostelloe]

Amazing!! As a retired Air Force SNCO, I thank you for all you’ve done. You are my hero!

[@glenndwyer5786]

What a privilege to photograph this stuff

[@wheelndeal1962]

SR-71 story... I was stationed at Offutt AFB in Nebraska in the mid-80's and many of us enlisted folk were tasked with parade duty for a SAC change of command ceremony. We were told the Blackbird would do a fly-by at a precise time during the band performance. We're all at attention and the song goes on, ends, and no Blackbird. A few minutes later the Blackbird makes a low, slow pass and hits the burners and is just gone! Come to find out, the reason the Blackbird was a little late was they did an accidental fly-by of the Millard commuter airport about 15 miles away, thinking it was Offutt! They must have had quite a rush at that dinky little airport! Google SR71 Millard Airport :)

[@TheAksleepy]

I was captivated by his hospital view point. I got badly burnt last year when I had a lithium ion batter explode on me and burnt both of my legs badly. The first treatment I received in my week long stay in ICU I was thinking there is no way I can make it through at least 7 days or more of this. Then I remembered what one of my Marine leaders had told me one day. If you get hurt, get on your feet as soon as you can, if you can't go to the physical therapy room and lift what weight you can. Make yourself well physical as much as you can. Daily work on a positive attitude that you will heal and be back in the fight. He was a bronze star awardee and had 3 purple hearts as a Vietnam vet. So I took his advice. My doctors were amazed that I refused to stay in my bed in the ICU. On my last day they said they had never seen someone with my drive to move even if it was painful. They said I never complained, never screamed in pain and agony during the treatments, and overall they said I was the best patient they ever had. Trust me daily pain will drive you to heal so you don't have to experience that pain anymore. Faith also got me through it.

[@ldhross]

What a military career Brian had. Brian and I had a very nice talk years ago at Boeing Field in Seattle. RIP

[@ghostrider3795]

Mr. Shul, you are an amazing and very inspirational man. I absolutely love learning about the SR 71, and hearing your story is humbling. I definitely would like to meet you one day, and visit in person. I tried hard to get into military flight (maybe not hard enough), but I was denied due to 20/40 vision in my right eye. Of the SR 71 pilots I've watched, you are my favorite. God had a grand plan for you.

[@glenndwyer5786]

Loved that presentation, great example of a great man

[@wyld0001]

My favorite Sr 71 video. Brian is an awesome and funny guy

[@N-Scale]

This was what America could do without having to rely on the lowest bidder !! Thanks to EVERYONE involved is this aircrafts history !!

[@cliffords2315]

Such an Amazing Aircraft, truely thought and built from the ground up, the engineers should get a medal for such an amazing almost other worldly Aircraft

[@TR6Telos]

Thanks Brian. I could not go to bed. Seen the SR71 at Mildenhall 1985-89 and have lots of Kodachrome slides as I got in early for the airshow at 7am and was taking shots everywhere, Imagine that now, thank you overseas visitors .

[@ashjackson7]

What an absolute legend in so many ways. Well done indeed! What an inspiration.

[@marionlee5272]

Wow, if you don't watch and listen to this testimony, you're missing out. I'm not into planes but this is truly inspiring to listen to the experience and amazing talent Brian's been given. It's all about 'changing your attitude about life.'

[@mrbtapir]

His photos are absolutely incredible.

[@markblankenship5788]

What a fantastic speaker. I kept thinking I’ll watch something else but, just couldn’t leave. Fantastic speaker and thank you for your service.

[@amybaby04]

WOW!! BREATHTAKING PICTURES!! HOLY HELL!! GORGEOUS!

[@amgent]

"They knew you were there, they knew you were coming..."

[@AvengerII]

"If we ever get shot down -- YOU'RE the spy, I'M (just) the driver!" Not even to the 15-minute mark and he says the top words of the presentation!

[@tkoborny]

The SR was an amazing aircraft. I was a tanker crew chief at Beale in the late 70s early 80s. I was visiting a friend up in housing one night I heard the SR takeoff and looked up and it was directly over me with afterburners glowing. It was beautiful I wish I would have had a camera. Whenever I was on a refueling flight I was right there next to the boomer watching the SR take on fuel. In March of 81 I got to take a ride in a T38 as a reward for being Wing Airman of the Month it was pretty close to the best day of my life. The pilot let me take the stick and take a few rolls. Beale was a great base I was stationed 12 miles from home.

[@darrenadams3383]

I USED TO think I was cool because I was in the Army ,Then I listened to this man !

[@jaguarantony]

Such an amazing Pilot. I had the honor of meeting him at Boeing field. Very friendly person.

[@MikeBrown-ii3pt]

I had a poster of a Blackbird on my bedroom wall as a teenager in the 80's. Right next to it was a poster of a black Lamborghini Countach. Both of them were, and still are so ugly that they're beautiful! They also both excelled in their intended purpose-to be the baddest of the bad! Sir, you are an incredible speaker! I started a trucking company in 1999 even though people thought I was crazy for doing so. Now, in 2018, my sister and I own 5 semi tractors, all leased to a local company. We've been debating whether to buy 2 more tractors. When I saw this video today, I forwarded it to sis and told her "This takes me back to '99. All or nothing!". Soon, 2 more tractors will be ordered and 2 more jobs provided when they're delivered. Thank you for taking me back to my roots and thank you for your service to the greatest country in the world!

[@jayabramson6702]

Mike Brown both of those are anything but ugly. The SR is such a graceful design it’s still futuristic

[@christopherjames9843]

I have a 1984 Lamborghini Countach. I actually bought it on eBay in 2005 for $19,500. Not bad. I have a friend who works on them so repairs and maint. don't kill me.

[@jedijoe1976]

Must be my spirit-friend. I had an SR71 poster and a Coutach poster in the 80s too!

[@steveburton5825]

@@jedijoe1976 Me too plus one of Farrah Fawcett in that orange bathing suit!

[@chrise2329]

Had the same pictures on my wall growing up 👍

[@rusty5705]

though my flight experience is far and few between yours, Mr. Shul (a private, single engine w/ 1100 hrs), I have stage kidney failure, on dialysis, watching your video has helped me with inspiration to not give up on life...thanks for your inspiration at the age of 63... I'm still 12!

[@maxiej]

I was lucky enough to be a part of the SR-71 program at Beale AFB. I was in the 9th SRW at Beale and worked in supply for the Blackbird. Best job I ever had and now I can brag about it. Back then it was very hush- hush. Rick Sherek

[@illumiNOTme326]

Rick Sherek - what a great part of history of have experienced.

[@johnbabiarz8565]

Yes it was hush hush, I was in PMEL 76-79 at Beale.

[@kathleenirish1981]

You're awesome, thank you for your service

[@portermeeka863]

Grew open next to Beale. #sonicboom

[@stevenporter6445]

Thank you major for reviving my love of writing

[@MyGeezer1]

Wow ! This gentleman can lay down a story. I had the privilege of seeing the 71 at Takhli in 1968 while there in support of the Ardvarks. The down thumbs are frustrated Navy Pilots or Russians with soar trigger fingers.

[@mrf111stick]

combat lancer !!! Col Ivan Dethman was my mentor...

[@Dg-zj6jo]

We love you sir x