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.🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
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
I "found" Brian a few years back and he has been an inspiration to me ever since. His books are proudly displayed in my office.A great American. So sad to hear of his passing.
This video brought me back too life last year and what an inspiration it was . I had fractured my back , got sepsis , pneumonia put in an induced coma for 3 weeks had a tracheotomy? When I came out of the coma my wife gave me my phone and after she left I went on UA-cam ( I am interested in military aircraft as my father was in the Royal Air Force ) The first video that came up was Brian’s and it inspired me to get better. I thought is bad and in pain , Brian’s was a lot more traumatic than mine . Anyway , by Brian’s thoughts about age and being reborn , I am 2 now 😀and a lot lot better than I was . I didn’t know Brian had passed , bless him , but he was my inspiration to live again . Wow , what a guy .
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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
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.
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!
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.
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 !!!!
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
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!!!!!!
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.
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
Started off watching stories about this awesome machine...& then stumbled across this guy. Wow.... Attitude IS everything... Thank you. Good watch. Cheers
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.
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.
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.
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!
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
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.
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.
@@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...
@@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.
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!
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.
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!
@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.
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.
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.'
It is the most wonderful story I've ever heard when it comes to flying I love it you can't ask for more passion than what this man went through I salute you sir
Well my first click was because it said SR-71, I was not disappointed. I will now click on anything which says Brian Shul, obviously a talented pilot and a brilliant speaker. This is without doubt one on the best presentations I have ever watched.
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
Thank you for your service & for sharing your journey in rising above daunting struggles, Brian. Your story resonates with me so deeply; when you have been on the brink of death, simply living is such a gift and grace from God. God bless you! Alicia
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.
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!
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....
dreams do come true. i have listened to the entire cast. it is amazing how a person comes full circle. it is great to see the passion and excitement in a persons mind. you are a lucky person. may God give you health and prosperity for decades to come.
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!
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!
If you look up the word 'Badass' in the dictionary....there is a full front-on picture of the SR-71 Blackbird. Just an awesome piece of engineering . And this great man is the perfect guy to fly it...cuz you can tell he loves it.
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.
Thank you Mr. Shul, if we ever meet, I would love to shake your hand .... You were on the front of everything you lucky devil. I am a little envious ... you have exemplified EVERYTHING that is EXEMPLARY .... well done Brian. M3+ patch!!! Ha! I'm glad you got the chance to work with the SR-71 ... but my real thanks is for your talk about being the luckiest man a'live. I had a parent who also was "the luckiest man alive". Thank you for your kind story dear Sir, I'm wonderfully happy that you're on my team!!! I wish I could can your enthusiasm .... it's beyond contagious. Well done!
I met Brian, years ago at an American Fighter Aces annual reunion. He was the keynote speaker at the Saturday night formal dinner. As here, he gave an incredible talk and I was awed though very familiar with the Blackbird. He mentions a 3 minute video at the end of this presentation. It is absolutely required viewing for anyone who is familiar with this plane. It is not shown here and that is a total shame. It is video and still pics of the Blackbird set to the amazing rendition of Somewhere over the Rainbow by Eva Cassidy. One word...incredible! I also have Brian!s book. I love it. Thank you for all you have done in the service of our country, Brian!
That was very inspiring, insightful, and touching. Thank you sir for your service, and all you have done for our country and the world as we know it! 🙏🤘 Its people like you that make us the country we are!
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!
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)
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.
Thank you for uploading this video. Brian Shul has become a legend, outstanding individual, serving his country with honor and distinction. Truly, God was and is with him. It is my humble opinion that he should have been promoted to the rank of lieutenant colonel.
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.🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
We lost Brian Shul this year. Rest in peace Brian. You served well and faithfully and earned your peace.
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
I "found" Brian a few years back and he has been an inspiration to me ever since. His books are proudly displayed in my office.A great American. So sad to hear of his passing.
This video brought me back too life last year and what an inspiration it was .
I had fractured my back , got sepsis , pneumonia put in an induced coma for 3 weeks had a tracheotomy?
When I came out of the coma my wife gave me my phone and after she left I went on UA-cam ( I am interested in military aircraft as my father was in the Royal Air Force )
The first video that came up was Brian’s and it inspired me to get better.
I thought is bad and in pain , Brian’s was a lot more traumatic than mine .
Anyway , by Brian’s thoughts about age and being reborn , I am 2 now 😀and a lot lot better than I was .
I didn’t know Brian had passed , bless him , but he was my inspiration to live again .
Wow , what a guy .
This is one of those videos you end up watching every few years again and again because it inspires you each time . Thanks Brian !
Thinking of you today at Beale AFB in CA. Thankyou for loving me Shuly. ✈️♥️ See you at Arlington. 🦘
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.
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.
I could listen to Brian for days. I am so sad he is no longer with us. RIP mate!
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.
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.
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.
Inspirational... amazing.
Im infantry... Wish I could've met him in real life.
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.
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
This man is one of the greatest speakers I’ve ever heard and most inspirational person I’ve ever seen
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
YOU MADE THE RIGHT DECISION.....BUSTING INTO ETERNITY UN INVITED WOULD GIVE YOU AN ETERNAL NIGHTMARE FULL OF IMPOSSIBLE REGRET....
Glad you are here James.
James Liebherr Hey buddy hope ur ok
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.
James Liebherr we’ve got to hang there brother. Tomorrow might just bring a nice surprise. 👍
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!
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.
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.
I love Brian Shul. Rest in peace brother.
Thank you Brian and all of our vets,God bless each and every one
Just an absolute amazing aircraft, the SR-71 was...!!! The head on picture, is always the best view of this aircraft!
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 !!!!
oh my, what a story....thank you. Best hour i've spent in years.
how many navy pilots flew the sr-71
Me too good hour well spent
I was getting ready to write the same comment. Best spent hour in many hours.
Oh its true. Its damn true!
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
The best motivational talk I have ever listened to. Kudos to Brian Shul.
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!!!!!!
this guy is a great story teller and the fact that those are real stories makes it even better
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.
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!
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
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!
I could listen to him over and over.! Thank you, sir, for your service.!
Started off watching stories about this awesome machine...& then stumbled across this guy. Wow.... Attitude IS everything... Thank you. Good watch. Cheers
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.
That is the most gorgeous dreamiest machine I've ever seen. Everyone who had a hand in its project must have been so proud.
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.
I ask who the he’ll didn’t like this. This man can inspire a side walk to stand up a start running!
Those old mig pilots that couldnt shoot him down
Most likely North-Korean people with blown-out ear drums lol
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.
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.
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.
RIP Brian - thanks for the great ride-along.
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!
Absolutely love hearing this man's lectures & speeches. Awesome adventures...
Amazing!! As a retired Air Force SNCO, I thank you for all you’ve done. You are my hero!
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
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.
Q
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.
@@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...
@@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.
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.
Every once in a while you come across a real warrior-hero. I salute you sir.
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!
Mike Brown both of those are anything but ugly. The SR is such a graceful design it’s still futuristic
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.
Must be my spirit-friend. I had an SR71 poster and a Coutach poster in the 80s too!
@@jedijoe1976 Me too plus one of Farrah Fawcett in that orange bathing suit!
Had the same pictures on my wall growing up 👍
I believe this is the best UA-cam video I have ever watched. Thank you.
Brilliant presentation, expert talker, funny, informative - could listen all day!
If you liked that, you'll like this ua-cam.com/video/7KbUNzi58wM/v-deo.html
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!
@Steven Grayson instablaster =)
@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.
@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
Can listen to this again & again. Again. Yet again. 💓
Thank you so very, very much Mr. Shul!!!
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.
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!
What an absolute legend in so many ways. Well done indeed! What an inspiration.
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.'
Major Shul, you are a hero,God bless you for your service sir!
Glad to hear that he gives presentations. He's a natural at storytelling!!
It is the most wonderful story I've ever heard when it comes to flying I love it you can't ask for more passion than what this man went through I salute you sir
Well my first click was because it said SR-71, I was not disappointed. I will now click on anything which says Brian Shul, obviously a talented pilot and a brilliant speaker. This is without doubt one on the best presentations I have ever watched.
What a military career Brian had. Brian and I had a very nice talk years ago at Boeing Field in Seattle. RIP
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
I'm watching this almost 3 1/2 years late. Sir, thank you for the inspiration.
Thank you Brian Shul, for your sharing story and God Bless You.....BTW. Thank you for your SERVED...
I will never tire of listening to you speak of your life experiences, Bravo.
REST IN PEACE Brian Shul. Thank you for your service and your memories.
Thank you for your service & for sharing your journey in rising above daunting struggles, Brian. Your story resonates with me so deeply; when you have been on the brink of death, simply living is such a gift and grace from God. God bless you! Alicia
Thank you sir Mr. Brian Shul for your heroic grand services to your country and free world, You are and your life is inspirational.
OK
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.
Thanks for your service Brian... Great talk - sharing with my boys.
Rest Easy Brian. You deserve it. I wish you Godspeed on your new journey. You will be missed
Simply the best 52 minutes 39 seconds on the Internet.
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!
Tremendous thank you for your service to our country. Wonderful speech.
great presentation and man i still get a buzz out of the speedcheck story, no matter how many times i hear it :D
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....
dreams do come true. i have listened to the entire cast. it is amazing how a person comes full circle. it is great to see the passion and excitement in a persons mind. you are a lucky person. may God give you health and prosperity for decades to come.
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
Possibly the best video I have ever watched. God bless and thank you for your service sir.
I have now seen this numerous times.... Very inspiring!!! What a great speaker Brian Shul is!!! The 'LA speed story' is classic!!! Great video!!!
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!
Speechless. Thank you for being an inspiration to us all.
Thank you Brian for a terrific story and presentation. I would give my left n... to have lived it as you did. Thank you for your service.
His photos are absolutely incredible.
Only one word for this presentation and man...........WOW !
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!
If you look up the word 'Badass' in the dictionary....there is a full front-on picture of the SR-71 Blackbird. Just an awesome piece of engineering . And this great man is the perfect guy to fly it...cuz you can tell he loves it.
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.
Thomas Doyle hhjgz
Thomas Doyle Pyg
I bet it was
so sorry my son loves planes and somehow landed here! lol
so.. how many times did u tell em to assend to FL600 and they respond OK decending to FL600
Brian Shul is a legend. Great speaker . What a guy .
WOW!! BREATHTAKING PICTURES!! HOLY HELL!! GORGEOUS!
Thank you Mr. Shul, if we ever meet, I would love to shake your hand .... You were on the front of everything you lucky devil. I am a little envious ... you have exemplified EVERYTHING that is EXEMPLARY .... well done Brian. M3+ patch!!! Ha! I'm glad you got the chance to work with the SR-71 ... but my real thanks is for your talk about being the luckiest man a'live. I had a parent who also was "the luckiest man alive". Thank you for your kind story dear Sir, I'm wonderfully happy that you're on my team!!!
I wish I could can your enthusiasm .... it's beyond contagious. Well done!
I met Brian, years ago at an American Fighter Aces annual reunion. He was the keynote speaker at the Saturday night formal dinner. As here, he gave an incredible talk and I was awed though very familiar with the Blackbird. He mentions a 3 minute video at the end of this presentation. It is absolutely required viewing for anyone who is familiar with this plane. It is not shown here and that is a total shame. It is video and still pics of the Blackbird set to the amazing rendition of Somewhere over the Rainbow by Eva Cassidy. One word...incredible! I also have Brian!s book. I love it. Thank you for all you have done in the service of our country, Brian!
Thank you sir for your amazing and dedicated service... You are a true hero.... 😎
That was very inspiring, insightful, and touching. Thank you sir for your service, and all you have done for our country and the world as we know it! 🙏🤘 Its people like you that make us the country we are!
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!
That there is a real world Superhero. God Bless you, Sir. Thank you for your service, for my family.
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)
This is one of the best IHMC speakers I have ever heard. I'm not even all that interested in jet or photography,, and I was captivated by his story.
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.
Thank you for uploading this video. Brian Shul has become a legend, outstanding individual, serving his country with honor and distinction. Truly, God was and is with him. It is my humble opinion that he should have been promoted to the rank of lieutenant colonel.
Awesome story, awesome photos, amazing humor - love it!! Thank you for the reminder about following your passion too!!!! cheers