U2 Spy Plane | The Dragon Lady | Cockpit View At 70,000 Feet | At The Edge Of Space with Gary Sinise

The Lockheed U-2, nicknamed "Dragon Lady", is an American single-jet engine, high altitude reconnaissance aircraft operated by the United States Air Force (USAF) and previously flown by the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). It provides day and night, high-altitude (70,000 feet, 21,300 meters), all-weather intelligence gathering.
TO THE EDGE OF INFINITY - 70,000 FT UP! At that time, Gary Sinise was the highest man on earth. The documentary follows the acclaimed actor and humanitarian as he prepares and travels to the edge of space in U2 spy plane. Gary Sinise’s High Flight is an amazing film that shows how much these American heroes put on the line every time they strap into their plane to do their job of protecting our country. High Flight is a great addition to our Salute to Service initiative, and we are grateful to be able to work with Gary to assist in his tireless efforts working with defenders, veterans, first responders, and their families through his Gary Sinise Foundation. In High Flight, Sinise expresses how honored he is to be invited to ride in the U2 - a trip very few people have ever experienced - and what a thrill it was “for a few moments to be the highest human being on the planet.”
A true voyage to the Edge of Infinity. The film documents Gary sinise's once-in-a-lifetime U2 flight at Beale Air Force Base in June 2011, covering every moment from the day-long training and meetings with the base staff to take-off and landing.
The flight was incredible and the views from 70,000 feet are absolutely breathtaking. Many thanks to Jon Tennyson and Sleeping Dog Productions for producing such an outstanding video.
Lockheed Corporation originally proposed it in 1953, it was approved in 1954, and its first test flight was in 1955. It was flown during the Cold War over the Soviet Union, China, Vietnam, and Cuba. In 1960, Gary Powers was shot down in a CIA U-2C over the Soviet Union by a surface-to-air missile (SAM). Major Rudolf Anderson Jr. was shot down in a U-2 during the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962.
U-2s have taken part in post-Cold War conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq, and supported several multinational NATO operations. The U-2 has also been used for electronic sensor research, satellite calibration, scientific research, and communications purposes. The U-2 is one of a handful of aircraft types to have served the USAF for over 50 years, along with the Boeing B-52, Boeing KC-135, and Lockheed C-130. The newest models (TR-1, U-2R, U-2S) entered service in the 1980s, and the latest model, the U-2S, had a technical upgrade in 2012.
Skunk Works produced the U-2 spy plane that could - and still does - collect images from 70,000 feet; the SR-71 Blackbird, an aircraft that could fly at speeds greater than Mach 3; and the F-117 Nighthawk, the first stealth fighter.
For defense tech journalists and aviation nerds, this is the equivalent of a Golden Ticket to Willy Wonka’s factory, but think supersonic drones instead of Everlasting Gobstoppers.
General characteristics:
Crew: 1
Capacity: 5,000 lb (2,300 kg) payload
Length: 63 ft 0 in (19.20 m)
Wingspan: 103 ft (31 m)
Height: 16 ft 0 in (4.88 m)
Wing area: 1,000 sq ft (93 m2)
Airfoil: root: NACA 63A409; tip: NACA 63A406
Empty weight: 16,000 lb (7,257 kg)
Max takeoff weight: 40,000 lb (18,144 kg)
Fuel capacity: 2,950 US gal (2,460 imp gal; 11,200 l)
Powerplant: 1 × General Electric F118-101 turbofan engine, 17,000 lbf (76 kN) thrust
Performance
Cruise mach number: Mach 0.715 (412 kn; 470 mph; 760 km/h) at 72,000 ft (22,000 m)[210]
Cruise speed: 413 kn (475 mph, 765 km/h) at 65,000 ft (20,000 m)
Stall speed: 65 kn (75 mph, 120 km/h)
Range: 6,090 nmi (7,010 mi, 11,280 km) plus
Endurance: 12 hours[212]
Service ceiling: 80,000 ft (24,000 m) plus
Rate of climb: 9,000 ft/min (46 m/s)
Time to altitude: 60,000 ft (18,000 m) in 12 minutes 30 seconds
Lift-to-drag: 25.6
Wing loading: 40 lb/sq ft (200 kg/m2)
Thrust/weight: 0.425
Fuel consumption: 910 lb/h (410 kg/h) in cruise
#u2 #sinise #aircraft

[@Dronescapes]

Click the link to watch more aircraft, heroes and their stories, missions: www.youtube.com/@Dronescapes

[@rebeccalerch3134]

Hello Jay thank you for your service I miss you the first time. Thank you thank you you experience something incredible I’m just thankful I can sit and enjoy the flight thank you both PT Lerch

[@alexbuckley6809]

Double Wow. As an Artist, I traveled 'round the World, met very famous people (like Freddy Mercury, or Roger Moore, for example), mostly musicians and actors, and now with 40 years experience, I can honestly say, the "bigger" they were in the eye of the public, the more humble they were acting as private persons. Gary is perhaps for the common masses not famous as an worldwide supermegaStar, but especially THAT factor, like using at least that what he got as salary or whatever, but HE is rich with having such a great talent and that HUGE HEART, which makes him in my opinion, one of the BIGGEST of 'em ALL, as acting with his heart in relation to pure, divine humanity. God bless the Dude, God bless you and your beloved ones. Greets

[@mugiyono6567]

Jooooos .... Strong he man wonderfuuul and .... Nice beutiful in keep or plane pilot kopilot .... And to operator .... Succes in londiiiing .... The besth of kopilot .

[@frediejovellano8666]

Remember all of US are alone with no real friend will care all of US.

[@glenturney4750]

What a beautiful presentation by all those who made this possible. Most people get stuck on things that are within arms reach and live such stressed out lives, spending too much time squabbling with other people, making themselves AND others miserable. But once you can witness what our home looks like from another perspective like this, it REALLY puts things into another light and reminds us just how small and fragile we really are. God bless our military, Gary and his team for making this video. Amazing!

[@everydayhero5076]

I like Gary Sinise. He's a good dude who's not a Hollywood shill. There needs to be more people in Hollywood like him.

[@Powerbandm]

He is a beast mode. He balls so hard I’m fairly confident he has the cheat code

[@davemuckeye]

There are… they just keep a low profile, unlike the unafraid Sinise…

[@MrAudioBill]

There simply needs to be more Americans with his devotion to Country and those who defend/defended it. Gary should be gifted a ride on one of the space joy rides nowadays. He has my vote.

[@januarioqueiroz3122]

This is our lieutenant ,we all love both of them, sinise or Dan.

[@csn6234]

Gary Sinise read your comment and he would like you to know how much it meant to him. He was having a bad day until he read your comment. Upon reading it, he commented to no one in particular, "My work is done here. If I die today, I will be a happy man." Thank you, EveryDayHero, for your service to this country -- and to Gary Sinise.

[@woodrowcall3269]

I can’t think of any civilian more deserving of an honor like this than Gary Sinise. For all he has done, and all he has yet to do for our military. This man is truly one in a million. 🇺🇸 God bless our military men and women. God bless America.🇺🇸

[@Dronescapes]

Well said Woodrow

[@MatthewW713]

Agreed

[@crocodile1313]

Indeed, God bless America! 👍

[@aefernando4njchords]

Amen and Amen 🙏🏾 GBA and GBU abundantly!!🎉❤🎉

[@palanthis]

"This man is truly one in a million." There are 7500 people like him?? I don't think that's right. I suspect he's one in 7.5 billion.

[@gerrywood5325]

Gary Sinise, I am a U.S. Air Force Veteran (1980 - 1992) and it made me proud to see and know of the dedication of the many people who strove to make your flight in the U2 "Dragon Lady" as safe a journey as possible. They didn't sugar coat anything you had to go through to take that flight like they might have some other personality. You made the statement at the end of the video that you wished we could have been there, I can tell you sir, those of us who know were with you from the time you took off, all the way up to 70,000 feet, and then back down to land on the runway. I am certainly glad that everything that was possible to show on video, from the anxiety you felt to the euphoria you felt while you were literally on the edge of space was allowed to be shown. My last duty station was at Robins Air Force Base, Warner Robins, Georgia. I am a Georgia native and a redneck to boot. THANK YOU for what you have done for the Active Military and Veterans like me.

[@mosesxavier8267]

Thank you for your service 🇺🇸

[@machstem6390]

He has literally dedicated his life to the vets. Absolutely admirable

[@davidjenkins567]

A great man who has found peace with himself. It’s a shame a lot more actors are not like him. Much respect!

[@kevincinnamontoast3669]

People like him. We are people. Actors are a label,this experience that was shared is a people experience.

[@5kr3aminMunk33]

@@kevincinnamontoast3669 Are potatoes people too?

[@Mike-jq9jo]

I see what you did there! Well done!

[@l0v3privacy9]

Of course the president is a person. I think.

[@mathbrown9099]

There needs to be a lot more Americans like Gary Sinise. He’s as genuine as Americans can be. I have so much respect for people serving others like Gary does.

[@Dronescapes]

🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸✌️

[@jackshittle]

Too bad the rest of Hollywood is the complete opposite of Gary.

[@rohtati1020]

Let's not forget there were lots of people that made this possible, without them, there would be nothing like this done. So it really was a privilege to Sinise and to us as well. Great pilot!!

[@ronpennington7508]

I agree 1000 percent

[@jeffopstedal3165]

agreed

[@Drewbert__]

Gary Sinise is a hero. He has dedicated his life to helping and serving our armed forces. Most Hollywood actors haven’t even done half as much as Gary has done for our veterans. This video brought a tear to my eye. We need more Gary Sinises in the world

[@Dronescapes]

👍

[@cw2gtc]

Very few Hollywood actors have done anything for anyone. Only all about themselves. Secondly, their globalist and progressive beliefs.

[@dantelandingin7776]

Gary Sinesi is very humble He speaks with sincerity and honestly in his job as a pilot flying high so high with courage and ability😊

[@apnira10]

I’m not even American but I feel proud of this man. What a fine character.

[@No_ReGretzky99]

Thank u preciate that as an American for real I never served in military

[@pcguysoffgridcabin]

Gary is one of the few actors I respect.

[@BarnardClangdeggin]

I served in the Air Force, and I appreciate the great job the video did of showing everything that goes on behind the scenes to get one pilot up in the air. They’re all top-notch people, and America is lucky to have them serving.

[@Dronescapes]

Thanks for your service! 🙏👍🙂

[@BarnardClangdeggin]

@@jameswright2974 - Come back when you can make a cogent statement. Yours made no sense.

[@pedrorivera9110]

Same here, MQ-9 "Reaper" crew chief out of Holloman, pilots never took us on a flight though 😉

[@jimig399]

@@pedrorivera9110 some get all the glory. Some get all the grunt! 🤙🙋

[@johnshumate1557]

Gary does so much for fire departments and for the service he is a real American hero! Much respect.

[@Dronescapes]

❤

[@dirtydanoverland9083]

This almost brought a tear to my eye. I am a supply troop over in south korea, the U2s are one of our airframes out here and people don't understand how truly incredible these planes are. It's an honor to see them up close!

[@Dronescapes]

👍🙏♥️

[@billsjapanlife8387]

Thank you for serving! Your service, though too often taken for granted, is extremely valuable to keeping the freedom! Bill USAF Ret.

[@johnnymiller9574]

Thank you

[@paulsuprono7225]

As it's said in the Marine Corp -;Semper Fi -;Always Faithful 🇺🇲

[@crocodile1313]

@@paulsuprono7225 Uuuurrraaahhh!

[@Drewbert__]

What I love most about this video is that Gary never really made it about himself. He took this incredible, once in a lifetime opportunity to highlight the people who make the U2 possible. Gary is very humble and genuine.

[@swayjaayy5495]

This is a dude who truly cares about troops. Doesn't just throw up a bumper sticker on his car or a sign in his yard or post popular memes on his social media. He's out there showing his support.

[@allendismuke7607]

Gary is always in awe of our service members for their heroism, but he doesn’t realize he’s just as much a hero as they are. He serves our troops so much and helps to lighten the load for them probably more than any other single person. I wish that all of my fellow Americans could see our service members through the eyes and heart of Gary! I served in the Air Force myself and I truly appreciate Gary for the actor, the man and the hero that he is! Thank you Gary for all that you do….

[@garyhenderson7332]

Well said !

[@kevingrimbeek2106]

IMO empathy comes with having had the experience?!

[@joshuabruno]

Semper Fidelis to Gary and Allen.

[@dudududuFthetories]

American heroes? right... More like fascist stormtroopers for one on the most brutal and evil regimes in history.

[@borntoclimb7116]

True

[@codybrooks2696]

Fantastic that Gary not only greets, but shakes hands and proudly thanks each service member he encounters. Hes a wonderful man, certainly a grounded and wholesome individual.

[@emmettjones5165]

I cannot get enough of Gary, and his tireless efforts on behalf of our military personnel and veterans. Truly a humble man who has accepted this mantle with grace and dignity which fell upon him after his role as Lt. Dan in Forrest Gump, and veterans within his own family. Gary gets my vote for the Medal of Freedom...

[@lTandermthrust2001]

He deserved every bit and every second of that flight, I think he is our contemporary modern-day Bob Hope. This guy goes to bat for us more than many politicians, and I mean every word of it. Can't thank you enough Gary for your unparallel advocacy to us active duty and veterans.

[@bekindngoodnright]

From 86 to 89 I was a flightline Jet Engine Mechanic on these U2's and SR-71's. A great time in life.

[@cahg3871]

You must of been so proud to work on those magnificent planes.👍✌️

[@billsjapanlife8387]

Mr. Gary Sinise has been one of the biggest supporters of the U.S. military. With his too numerous to count visits to the bases, performances from the Lt. Dan band, and his wonderful way of story telling that makes you feel that you are there with him. His efforts to support those that choose to serve is greatly appreciated!

[@Dronescapes]

👍♥️

[@peterkinberger9741]

Gary Sinise is a very profoundly deep man. As a Marine (Nam Era) I wish him the best in what life has to offer. He is truly amongst the greatest actors ever to have lived. It is a dream of mine to meet him in person and converse with him someday !

[@Dronescapes]

Well said Peter. Hopefully you will get to meet him

[@millieo7155]

Only knew him as an actor. I’ve watched a speech by a pilot from this group of spy planes. Said there was one in the air constantly through the Cold War. It is an engaging story. Sinese has a great narrator voice. Glad he had this chance.

[@johnmooney9444]

Dear Gary, we are fortunate that when you received a calling, you recognized and embraced it. Our military personnel and our country could not be more grateful. Cheers.

[@jscomputerservicesanpcpart5772]

As a Aussie and supporter of all our allies, I thought this was a amazing adventure for you. But then I also realised the importance of the message. The pilots who serve this program and the ground staff who are involved are all hero’s. My full respect and admiration goes out to you all. Thankyou for your service not only to your country. But to the the whole free world. God bless

[@troyjeschke5894]

A perfect narrator for such a profound mission! Love you lieutenant Dan! Seriously I appreciate everything you do with our wonderful troops…….God Bless you Gary Sinise !

[@Dronescapes]

Thank you Troy! 👍♥️

[@michaelv1984]

God bless. I am a disabled and medically retired US Infantry Combat Veteran and this brought tears to my eyes. I appreciate all that you do and I love and miss the military so deeply. Gary I head no idea you were so involved. That’s truly amazing. Not everyone appreciates those of us that gave up so much so willingly. I left behind a wife and two children and served my country for 10 years. Thank you to the amazing crew of this flight team.

[@Dronescapes]

Thanks for your service 🙏👍🇺🇸

[@SyTheMetalhead]

Thank you for your service

[@Han-Solo459]

Im calling bullshit on you, Stew Burner. War is a necessary evil foreshadowed by failure. It should be kept in perspective. Who would miss being in combat? Someone who wasn't ever in any.

[@glenturney4750]

Thank You for your service. 🙂👍

[@kenprevatt1267]

Thank you sir much love and respect .

[@imtheman4805]

This plane was only developed 68 years ago. Most every man who worked on this plane has left this good earth yet his work lives on. Simply amazing!!!!!

[@SlavaUkrainiMax]

Gary Sinise is not only a treasure for our country but a treasure for humanity !!

[@Dronescapes]

👍👍

[@wyattjohnson5898]

What an amazing opportunity and to know that a man who gives so much to our wounded warriors is honored in a way like this is absolutely beautiful. Thank you Gary for all the support and time you’ve given.

[@Dronescapes]

♥️♥️♥️

[@mikek3951]

Although I never got to fly in a U2 My dad spent his life in the Air Force I was beyond lucky and humbled to go for a few different flights . And I can tell you just at 50000 feet it’s something unreal. Where it feels as if time stands still and you realize how small we all are. It’s a total sense of relief and being totally free. Where nothing can touch you or hurt you. It was at this time it struck me. We are not alone. Somewhere out there life is waiting and maybe we might never find it but it’s there. To me it’s heartbreaking sometimes that we all don’t get to feel these things. When so high there’s no fighting. No guns. No traffic. No death. But you look down knowing people are suffering. People are taking there last breath. People are laughing and some are crying

[@Dronescapes]

👍👍👍♥️

[@alexdarcydestsimon3767]

At close sight, life is a tragedy. From a distance away, it is a mere laugh. Being high (in the Sky ) makes you actually change also your time perception.

[@Dronescapes]

@@alexdarcydestsimon3767 Very true. Different perspectives. Perhaps from up there you can wonder why we all fight each other.

[@alexdarcydestsimon3767]

@@Dronescapes i usually take a train to go from the Airfield back to Paris. You can not imagine how i feel in a completely different state of mind from other people. Like i am still flying and chilled, when they are like stressed out ants fighting for a seat or anything they can find a reason to fight for... Amazing what aviation can do. Go for a PPL doesn't come cheap but is certainly is not as expensive as a psychologist and seems to give better results.

[@larrytischler570]

... no death.. Did yo ever get that all wrong. No guns is also a huge downer. You can't defend yourself from the enemy, the basis of living a free existance.

[@kellynkarr6270]

This was so incredible. I watched it with my 5 year old and was moved to tears. He looked up at me and wiped my tears away and said, "it's ok dad, I feel the same way."

[@Dronescapes]

You share those same emotions with lots of us. Glad you like it Kellyn, and thank you for watching

[@The_Oracle_of_time]

🤣🤣

[@Koketso_Gololo]

Lol

[@ericdow6763]

Thank You 'Lt Dan' for sharing your experience with us. Your generosity to our service men and women world wide has always given me a sense of pride and honor. Thank You again!

[@Dronescapes]

Thank you for watching ♥️🙏♥️

[@boondockduane]

Just the most amazing story, makes me feel so feeble. Gary is an amazing story teller and no civilian deserved this ride more than he. All his work with our troops is what we should all be doing. Feel very proud to be an American after watching this

[@Dronescapes]

❤🙏

[@bigsparky8888]

WE ARE IN AGREEMENT!!!

[@fernandoelesio7120]

@@Dronescapes ñ

[@Usa_mikek]

Wonderful video. My late Dad was SAC and 8th AF. My Mom was a wasp. Thank you Gary, pilot, your channel and everyone else.

[@Dronescapes]

Thank you Mike and thank you to both of your parents for their service

[@paulsuprono7225]

Wow . . . these pilots literally put their lives on the line, each & every time they become operational . . . at that EXTREME altitude. It's truly extraordinary for Gary to 'explore these hieghts' ! And his rapor - 'God bless, these troops.' 🇺🇲

[@Dronescapes]

👍👍

[@racerd9669]

In 1968 I was at Tan Son Nhut AB in Vietnam when I saw my first U2 take off, it is a site you will never forget. Gary Sinise you deserve a ride in the U2 after all you have done for our service personal all over the world. Great show.

[@adrianwong8573]

One of the best documentaries ever, so we'll produced and full of information, and the footage next level... Long live the dragon lady, respect from South Africa

[@Dronescapes]

👍🙏😀

[@MarlonWilliams1]

I second that Adrian, I only popped on KZbin just to see some footage of the U2 dragon lady as one has just landed at a base near me in the UK, (RAF Fairford). This documentary completely hooked me and I ended up watching the whole thing there and then. ☺️🙌🏾🎥🎭🛫🌎

[@JackRuff]

Gary, you are one of us. A veteran. Who serves those who served. In many cases, longer than many who sereved, and in far more places. I salute you!

[@cahg3871]

He does so much for America’s veterans and service members.He tours with his Lt.Dan band to entertain our service members,volunteers his time for disabled veterans and seems to have no ego.”Hi,I’m Gary”, not “hi I’m Gary Sinise the Hollywood movie actor”,that says so much about how down to earth he is.I don’t put actors on a pedestal as some are want to do,but I do believe Gary Sinise deserves to be recognized for the good work he does for America’s disabled and current service members.

[@jasonbrownworth6840]

No better person in the world to have ever told this story or be honored with the opportunity to fly with Pilot J. Ford up to the edge of the world. Mr. Gary Sinise, having met you while I served in Iraq, you yourself are a true gentleman, outstanding actor and hero. Thank you for taking us on your journey. Respect my friend.

[@michaellombardo7312]

I am a USAF veteran from 1978 to 82, AGE mechanic. When I was 42 I was an IBEW inside wireman that built the electrical portion of that pilot center on Beale AFB. My heart overflows with pride and honor after seeing this, so glad that I was part of this.

[@Dronescapes]

👍👍🙏

[@username25o9]

I cried watching this. And I respect this man more than I did before seeing this. And all the things he does to support our troops. What a remarkable life, what a remarkable man.

[@1boortzfan]

Gary you are quite a wordsmith to be able to put that experience into words. Thank you for everything you do to support our men and women in uniform.

[@twistedleft1060]

Excellent. I am glad Gary Sinise was given this rare opportunity. He has done so much for us.

[@williamt7557]

Just plain OUTSTANDING, Thank You Gary Sinise for all you do.

[@jasontedesco3154]

Gary truly is a national treasure. I could listen to the man narrate the phone book.

[@Dronescapes]

👍

[@antonioreed6518]

I'm here crying , just to think that someone was so nice to us , and we humans taking life for granted. Y'all better get on your knees and thank God

[@xoriskanenaprogramma1435]

he went up to 70k feet but still "a down to earth person". What a great person ...dont tell me that we all would love to have him as a friend...he is doing so many for the veterans and the society with his foundation . Kudos to you "Lt. Dan"...

[@Dronescapes]

Well said 👍

[@TheErikWulf]

Bless that man. He does so much for the Military. He's a great man, truly. ❤🇺🇸

[@Dronescapes]

👍♥️♥️

[@danokerr9929]

The amount of respect Gary has for everyone he is in contact with is humbling and genuine

[@Dronescapes]

👍❤

[@TC-bg7up]

God bless you Gary Sinise for your support of our troops!

[@mvrckgames]

I'm not even American but i feel so proud watching this. "Mom, i'm home" brought tears to my eyes. Good job U.S Military 👍🏻

[@BMF6889]

It reminds me of when I was a Marine company commander at the 1st Marine Brigade at MCAS Kanehoe Bay, Hawaii. The brigade commander decided that infantry officers should appreciate a pilot's perspective and that pilots should appreciate an infantry perspective. So he directed that 3 company commanders get a ride in the back seat of and F-4 and that 3 pilots be company commanders for several days. I was one of the infantry company commanders chosen to ride in the back seat of an F-4 fighter. I had to go through a number of tests before I could qualify to be in the back seat. So on the day to take my ride, we were taxing and the canopy was down. It was like an oven in the cockpit and my flight suit was already soaked. We took off. It was line having a rocket attached to the plane. We climbed to 20,000 feet and the cockpit was finally a comfortable temperature. This flight was t simulate an attack on an enemy position and so when we approached the target, the pilot dropped down to just a few feet above the ocean. As we approached the target, the pilot did a steep pullup and a 180 degree turn so he could positivity identify the target and then did another 180 degree turn to attack the target. The pilot was jinking to simulate avoiding antiaircraft fire. That caused my flight helmet to bounce off the canopy like a BB in a jar. The pilot then pulled a hard climb that caused the G force to pin my head between my legs until we gained altitude. The pilot's call sign was "puke" and he accomplished his mission to cause me to puke in my barf bag. When we taxied in, the squadron pilots were all there to greet us and celebrated the fact that Puke had made me puke. It was all in great fun. The pilots who were company commanders for a few days didn't want anything to do with commanding an infantry company. The General accomplished his goal. I didn't want anything todo with flying a fighter in combat and pilots wanted nothing todo with commanding a company. We both appreciated how difficult our roles were.

[@robertonavarro7713]

I was also a company commander. But that was only in our college Naval ROTC, not the US Marines. 😁

[@coolinmac]

Complete lies

[@jackburton2680]

So to summarize, bunch of officers decided they should get incentive flights and got to go have fun on a fighter jet. I'm sure all the enlisted toiling away actually maintaining the acft and doing all the other support functions there really appreciated that the officers chose to take care of themselves and hook themselves up with somethng cool like that.

[@theresedoherty8603]

Thank you for that beautiful message. I really appreciated the information!

[@joeybobbie1]

I have always Loved the F4 Phantom . To me it’s a Beautiful Fighter. Too bad they discontinued this Great Fighter Jet. It was one of the Fastest most versatile Jets we’ve ever had, and would still be of Great Service to this Country. Kinda of like all the Talk of doing away with the A10. Why on Earth would they ever do away with the A10? It’s one of the Best Ground Support Fighters in the World? Leave it to the Government to Always Screw up the Military!!!

[@104thDIVTimberwolf]

As an 18-year Military Veteran, I can assure you that Gary has no idea how much he is really appreciated.

[@Dronescapes]

👍♥️🇺🇸

[@E_X_H_U_M_E_D_06]

Stop lying.

[@104thDIVTimberwolf]

@@E_X_H_U_M_E_D_06, about what do you presume anyone is lying?

[@Dronescapes]

@@104thDIVTimberwolf He makes it as vagues as possible by design. He is probably the usual troll.

[@104thDIVTimberwolf]

@@Dronescapes, probably never wore any uniform, other than his sister's Brownie costume. But he's a big man on Call of Duty, I'll bet.

[@SJ-EOR]

How incredible. Great respect for those pilots! For for Mr. Sinise.

[@Dronescapes]

❤🙏

[@merritjn]

Gary, this a totally awesome experience for an awesome person. Thank you for standing up and for the men and women who give so much for our great country. Thanks to all…!

[@darrellsmith2658]

You sir, are absolutely one of a kind. Your love for our men and woman that have chosen to serve, is absolutely inspirational. Even having lived the life as a member of the military flight crews, I was emotional listening to your explanation of that entire journey. You’re blessed with the ability to elegantly tell this story. I salute your “sir”. Thank you!

[@Dronescapes]

🙏❤

[@velchuck]

Absolutely, a great documentary! I salute you Gary for all that you do for our military and first responders! You are a true PATRIOT!

[@Dronescapes]

🙂

[@alexdarcydestsimon3767]

@@jimmyboimazarti1234 a good one !

[@richardlong4076]

And not a Patriot in the Crazy People who call them selfs "Patriot's" and dont belive the laws of the U.S.A. apply to them and drive without drivers licences and carry guns without registration or proper permits and a bunch of crazy stuff..

[@Dronescapes]

Nice joke you mean 😂

[@dalekellogg2585]

Well done Gary..what a great way of words that you have experienced...thank you

[@RaderGH]

24:15 Really spoke to me. The way he said it is just amazing. "I am truly sorry for anyone who did not have the opportunity to see a shuttle launch in person" had me in tears.

[@Dronescapes]

Thank you for sharing. We were moved as well, and we still are every time we watch it.

[@spooksy1982]

I saw a shuttle launch whilst on holiday with my parents in the late eighties. I believe I was around 5 years old but happened to see it taking off whilst walking around the Kennedy Space Centre. Must have left an impression as I can still remember it now.

[@GreatWhiteShark75]

For us Veterans and active duty, Gary Sinise is a gift from God.

[@johnrichard6802]

What an incredible human Gary Sinise is.

[@januarioqueiroz3122]

You bet!😊❤

[@saulalvarado6708]

It’s amazing to see the all the people involved to get that ONE pilot in the air. Massive team effort. Everyone working for the same goal.

[@mikeymike34100]

I'm a Brit and despite what people think. I LOVE America......their people, their culture and of course their military. NOBODY does it like you guys......NOBODY!!!!! That actually brought a tear to my eye. Gary you're a very humble guy. God Bless you all. Scottish Dude.

[@Dronescapes]

🙏❤🇺🇸

[@mikeymike34100]

@@Dronescapes Thanks for taking the time to read my comment. ❤

[@Dburke54321]

Gary Sinise is amazing and does so much for our military and vets! Thank you for all you do for us LT Dan!

[@gypsyrose259]

I love Gary. He’s just genuinely a good person with a good heart!

[@CRUZER1800]

I am a proud Air Force Veteran (66 to 70) and must say I was brought to tears by the experience of this film. Fine men and women serving their country to the best of their ability... My Salute to you all.. Russ

[@Dronescapes]

Thanks for your service Russ

[@gordonrobertson9072]

Two great patriots Gary and Bob hope. They will be in our prayers for ever.

[@riprapter6322]

I was Loadmaster on C141A Starlifter. I never flew as high as 70,000 ft, we went up to 41,000 ft, but you could tell the atmosphere was changed and the color of UP was much different. I truly miss the high altitude sunsets and sunrises. Flying at night over the desert was ever so awe inspiring and beautiful. I can imagine that 70, ft would be even more inspiring and beautiful. Our God made a beautiful world. Thank you Gary and all that work in our military now days. Thanks to the production team also.

[@Dronescapes]

Thanks for sharing! 🙏👍❤

[@edwardturner1282]

As an USAF veteran of the Viet Nam era; I can say how thrilled I was to witness Gary Sinise's genuine love and respect for the pilots and supports personnel. I can't think of a more deserving civilian to ride up with the "Dragon Lady" into the wild blue yonder. " Hook em up; get em high." The whole procedure seems like a beautiful well practiced ritual. Amen.

[@jeffmarks1506]

A little late to this, but god bless our soldiers, and god bless Gary Sinese, who dedicates his life to military causes. To me, he is the militaries ultimate supporter who happens to be a successful actor as well.

[@scottpecora371]

As I've reach 60 years of life on this Earth my age and its multiple health issues bring home the reality that I will never be able to fly this high or encounter these experiences in this life anymore. Those days and years have sadly passed, and so Gary I wish to thank you and all the myriad of military and civilians that took the time and considerable effort to make it so that I could fly along with you. Thank you, Scott Pecora

[@Dronescapes]

❤🙏

[@richardbatistelli7280]

Thank you for this opportunity to see the world as you saw it. Richard

[@Dronescapes]

👍🙂

[@bogbreffful]

"climbing like a homesick angel" What a wonderful description and explanation

[@williambenedict7581]

This was amazing, as a person who was given the opportunity to be a part of the U2 and SR-71 program on the photographic side in the 1980’s, I dreamed of having a chance to do what Gary had the privilege to experience, I believe it was life changing. What an experience this must have been, and for a great guy and American who loves our military.

[@Dronescapes]

♥️👍

[@PatrickC63]

I too had the privilege of being part of the U2/TR-1 program. I was a crew chief in England. I learned much more about the aircraft. Gary did an absolute great job of narrating. Two words come to mind, changed and grateful!

[@Dronescapes]

🙏❤

[@anthonymcnatt3799]

I'm sitting in a bomb had me rollin😆

[@diecastdungeon8970]

As a Air Force veteran and very proud Vietnam veteran I have to say Thank for supporting the troops the way you do. I was very moved by your video and the true pride and respect you showed during all parts of your prep, pre-flight and awe inspiring flight. Thank you for what you do and THANK YOU for being a very proud American ... God Bless You. 🇺🇸

[@Dronescapes]

🙏♥️👍🇺🇸

[@burkejohansen3713]

Thank you for your service & may God bless you!!!

[@musicandfilms9956]

"very proud Vietnam veteran"... yes, slaughtering the Vietnamese poor and using napalm to leave their land infertile for generations.... such a proud decade for America.

[@dominicksforza3484]

I've got so much respect for Gary Sinise, for his tireless work with our military veterans, his concerts with the Lt Dan Band and his humble humility and love of country, what America truly is and will be again in 12 months. He is the Bob Hope of my generation and his place in the history of great Americans is secure. As a VET myself I thank you for all you've done, all you're doing and all you're planning to do in the future. God Bless you 🇺🇸Gary Sinise. 🇺🇸

[@Tacomaguy458]

For all that Gary has done for our military, giving him this ride was the least they could do in return. Guy is just a legend

[@dmeemd7787]

He's such a great dude, I'm really glad that he was able to do this!!

[@Dronescapes]

♥️👍

[@gittar]

Gary, fantastic video and story. I'm retired from USAF, have a life full of incredible memories from coming out of the Illinois cornfields to meeting the Air Force world in awe. Tomorrow, Memorial Day, I'll participate in a celebration of my fallen brothers and sisters, whom includes my grandfather and my Dad. Thank you for your service to us, Gary, God bless you.

[@Dronescapes]

🙏🇺🇸✌️❤️

[@UNLKYHNTR]

The feeling he described is also known as the "overview effect". Evey Astronaut, that has been to space, had the same experience. They describe it as a feeling of "oneness" and an indescribable feeling of being connected to and with everything at once. There are no borders up there, no disagreements. Having that feeling must be absolutely incredible. I sure know that I won't be able to see alot up there because I would be crying my eyes out. Seeing the world from above is a dream I will always have, even if it only were for a few seconds, I would take the chance. Our home is a beautiful place and we should make the right decisions, together, to enjoy it for as long as we can. Not as nations, but as a species. I love you all and I wish all of you a wonderful, early Christmas. Take care.

[@GaryBearTexanUSA]

Thanks to the airmen and airwomen who maintain and fly the U2 aircraft. Their contributions to the security of America are greatly appreciated and not forgotten about by us citizens who understand the importance of their love and commitment to their duty. ❤😊

[@ooyginyardel4835]

Gary is a good guy. I wish there were more like him.

[@richyr5876]

while on active duty i meet Gary a few times during my time in service. hes legit amazing and very supportive of the military.

[@Dronescapes]

Good to know! Some people doubt that, despite his great efforts and support 👍🙏

[@abdulrahmanabdullah3320]

I love watching SR71 black bird and U2 Dragon Lady mission flights... So astounding and amazed.... Congratulations to Mr. Gary Sinise for his successful mission.... I loved watching from the very moment till end... Enjoyed it... God bless him (Lumut Malaysia)

[@Dronescapes]

👍👍

[@MC1988mt]

Gary I’ve always watched you on TV and the big movie screen. Without a doubt you are a true American patriot. You do so much for our troops and this country. God bless you.

[@spikey2740]

Thanks Gary, Jay, and everyone else involved, for sharing this wonderful experience which so few, and yet so many of us through modern electronics can ever know.

[@Dronescapes]

♥️♥️♥️

[@rickiedeesnutz7318]

Thank you mr sinise....for all youve done and for your heart sir. From a coast guard vet.

[@SoloSailing77]

Gary is someone very special! Why are there so few people, who become successful and forget what success really is! You can't buy what Gary has. And he shares it freely. GOD bless you Gary! You do inspire people to serve their community, and strive to be a difference maker. Never looking for an excuse, but looking for what he can do to help! The TV doesn't spotlight people like Gary. They don't measure success the same way!

[@Dronescapes]

🙏👍♥️

[@chrisbrand5728]

My son is in this video, several times. TSgt Ian Brand. When Gary comes to the hangar, Ian is the closest to the camera man. And at the end of the video he is the last one to shake hands with Gary and recieve a pat on the back. I too am a USAF veteran and Ian arranged for me to ride shotgun in the chase vehicle. That hot rod slams you back into the seat and your right behind the aircraft in nothing flat! Thank you son for an unforgettable ride!

[@Dronescapes]

Wow!

[@wesleyyoung1082]

Amazing to watch. As an Australian person that has always thanked our armed forces for the protection and sacrifice they so freely give I can see why they do this. What an amazing plane and what an amazing bunch of people that work to keep this flying. My hat goes of to you Gary,Jay and all the crew…

[@johnwillis4706]

Congratulations Gary, flying in the U-2 will change your life. Once you've gone to the top of the atmosphere it shows you how small and insignificant, we all are. My flights ended when the flight surgeon detected a heart rhythm problem in me. Upon further testing it was revealed to be A-fib with cardo something or other. But the flights I made left an impression that will last my whole life. I'm an old man now and I look back on these flights with a mix or awe and inspiration. Again, Gary Congratulations, now you'll have to fight the need to do it again, the U-2 can become a habit like heroin.

[@celsobarros2229]

Salute to all of you that provides us with peace, because strength brings peace, you never have to go to war. Respect to all of you.

[@primate4]

I’m glad that Mr. Sinise got to experience this. He does so much for our troops and their families!

[@Dronescapes]

Well said!

[@normanjones8089]

I totally enjoyed every single minute of this awesome flight. Mr. Sinise is an awesome guy for all of his contributions to both the acting career and for his love of the military and space flights.

[@Dronescapes]

👍👍👍❤️🙏

[@georgecolvin4388]

I worked for the Lockheed Martin Skunk Works back in the day. It was great to have worked on the U-2. Thanks Gary for this Video.

[@Dronescapes]

Wow, any experience to share George?

[@MrAnderson5157]

@@Dronescapes Nah 'cuz George is fos

[@stanmans]

I just came across this. An indescribably beyond exci😢ting experience. There are no words that are good enough to explain the experience. Watching this gave me chills. G-d bless our service personnel and thank you Gary for the video. 😊proud to be an American. I don’t know about any of you who watched this but for me, a few tears ran down my cheeks. My wish is to show every American what love of country, dedication and freedom of democracy really means. How grateful we should be to live in the U.S.A.

[@pickleriiick7294]

The way he articulates this is amazing. Thanks again, Gary. I had the privilege of shaking your hand in Iraq, 2005.

[@Dronescapes]

👍👍🙏

[@Rose-dz6bb]

Wow

[@pool-exchange8974]

Yeah crazy right

[@SOLESHIPPING]

🧢

[@andaphrute6598]

🍌🧢

[@benmack4709]

🍌

[@Trex531]

Gary is one of a kind of human being. Wonderful experience having been the highest man over Earth not counting the astronauts at the ISS.

[@MW-jm8qb]

I’ve always held Gary Sinise in high regard. What a great guy. Loved his performance in The Stand by Stephen King.

[@jackyu1143]

I'm not from the US but I felt lots of emotions within me when watching this video. Mr Sinise's genuine thoughts as he went through the training and flight evoked lots of feelings within me.