Narrative

While training for my private pilot certificate at Tailwheels, Etc. in Winter Haven, FL, I gained experiences that I will carry with me throughout my life. I was unsure when meeting my new instructor, Fred Moulding, but he turned out to be one of the most interesting and effective instructors I’ve ever worked with (even though he tries to come across as salty and cynical). I was happy to go through the daily routine of planning the route on the map, calculating fuel and performance requirements, determining the weight and balance of the aircraft and getting the weather briefing for each flight. There was never a dull moment with Fred once we were airborne. From drilling me to perfect my crosswind landings to simulating an engine emergency in middle of nowhere and telling me to find the best landing spot, I was constantly being challenged to make sound decisions and follow procedures. I will never forget the feeling of accomplishment I had taxiing the aircraft back to the school after passing my check-ride. Fred was standing out front smoking a cigarette, and he must have seen my satisfied and relieved smile. Fred half smiled and told me he knew I had it in the bag. To this day, I still hear his voice in my head each time I fly.