Success Is a Journey—And So Is Yours.
Sometimes you're the victim. Other times, the victor.
But every moment…is shaping who you’re becoming.
Thirty-nine years ago, I was in your shoes. Terrified. Overwhelmed. A brand-new cadet at the U.S. Air Force Academy, questioning whether I had what it took.
Fast forward four years—I saluted a general at graduation. Not long after, I was flying solo in an F-16, high above enemy territory.
But let me tell you, that path was anything but smooth.
I stumbled. I doubted myself. I panicked in a dark cockpit at 30,000 feet, fighting claustrophobia and fear.
You ever been there? Not in a jet—but in life? Facing uncertainty so loud it drowns out your confidence?
It sucked. But I never bailed out.
And you don’t have to either.
Because here’s what else happened…
I broke the sound barrier. Laughed with brothers and sisters-in-arms.
Won battles that lit my soul on fire.
And I served a mission bigger than myself.
The chaos gave me clarity.
The setbacks gave me strength.
The fear? It eventually turned into fun.
I don’t know what your mission is right now. Maybe it’s leading a team through change. Starting a business. Healing a relationship.
Whatever it is—it’s going to require:
➡️ Humility
➡️ Discipline
➡️ Integrity
➡️ Resilience
➡️ And above all—Wingmanship
Let me ask you:
- Who’s got your six?
- Who are you flying with through the storm?
- Who’s helping you become the leader, parent, partner, or friend you were meant to be?
Because here’s the truth:
There will be turbulence. There will be fear. There will be doubt.
But there will also be breathtaking views, high fives at the finish line, and the deep joy that comes from living with purpose.
So whatever storm you’re in…
✅ Embrace the struggle.
✅ Take the risk.
✅ Own the losses.
✅ Celebrate the wins.
✅ And cherish the entire ride.
Push it up. Stay in the cockpit. And no matter what—Never Fly Solo.
I’ve got your six. Do you have someone who has yours?
Your Friend and Wingman,
Waldo Waldman
P.S. To the Air Force Academy Class of 2025—tomorrow begins the next phase of your mission. Your journey is just beginning.
Your Wingman,
Lt Col (ret.) Waldo Waldman
