Sam Byrams
November 4th 03, 01:05 AM
"The JP-7 burned out before the legend ever did" and a (presumably
photoshopped) "LOCKHEED SR-71 1963-1999" plaque like that on Marilyn's
tombstone is on the front. The reverse is a high-key picture of the SR
from the rear, climbing, gear up and "tiger tails" from the ABs and
the "Blackbird" name in loopy letters like MM's famous signature.
The text explains that the SR was disliked by SAC brass as a high
maintenance prima donna and her operating costs were stratospheric,
yet throughout her career the SR delivered the pictures as no other
platform could or ever will. She was the fastest, highest, farthest
flying production aircraft in history and might remain so as long as
man flies. Her flying career ended under mysterious circumstances and
the mighty J-58s,unique to Kelly Johnson's beautiful and enigmatic
design, are stilled for all time. But in the imaginations of her
flight and maintenance crews and those who cherish the dream of
flight, she will fly forever.
Think the Estate will find this objectionable?
photoshopped) "LOCKHEED SR-71 1963-1999" plaque like that on Marilyn's
tombstone is on the front. The reverse is a high-key picture of the SR
from the rear, climbing, gear up and "tiger tails" from the ABs and
the "Blackbird" name in loopy letters like MM's famous signature.
The text explains that the SR was disliked by SAC brass as a high
maintenance prima donna and her operating costs were stratospheric,
yet throughout her career the SR delivered the pictures as no other
platform could or ever will. She was the fastest, highest, farthest
flying production aircraft in history and might remain so as long as
man flies. Her flying career ended under mysterious circumstances and
the mighty J-58s,unique to Kelly Johnson's beautiful and enigmatic
design, are stilled for all time. But in the imaginations of her
flight and maintenance crews and those who cherish the dream of
flight, she will fly forever.
Think the Estate will find this objectionable?