Lockheed C-130 Hercules (08-3178)

There was just sufficient space for that huge Herc to back up while turning its tail to the right to smoothly stop between two single prop GA aircraft. It was amazing! Those pilots backed their plane up while turning to the right way better than I can back my car into a parking slot while parallel parking. Initially, that crewman on the back ramp was there to perform "spotter' duty for his pilot while they backed up. BUT, when the aircraft began to taxi forward, that crewman was not only watching to be certain the Hercules was able to safely taxi past the small plane I was standing in front of, he was always watching me to insure I stayed where I had been told to stay. I had been told, in no uncertain terms, that I could stand "RIGHT THERE" and woe to me if I went traipsing around to any other position while the aircraft was moving out past me. The last thing I was told was, "I wouldn't want to be you, Sarge, if our Aircraft Commander has to stop this plane from taxiing because YOU have moved anywhere else but HERE!" "You can move AFTER we are off the ramp!" "10-4?" "Got It?" So, I went where I was told to stand --- and I grew roots. And this was one of the close up pics I clicked. Sincere Thanks to everyone who made it possible for me to get closeups like this.

Very cool. Gary!

Just 5x awesome even before I start reading.................( beer all set next to the screen...)

LOL>..............................!!! Gman this is hilarious! Grew roots....chuckle! now that is an aviation storyteller right there...Imagine showing some pics at a schoolhouse slide show, show and tell, and you have to describe that to some kids!! ba haaaaaaaaaaaaaa excellent!