Feet Wet: Reflections of a Carrier Pilot

Feet Wet (aviator talk for reaching the safety of water) is a chronicle of adventure, heroism, courage, and humor, with some of the most exciting passages ever written on flying.

In his remarkable career—from "nugget" to competent jet aviator, to test pilot, to Vietnam fighter pilot, to air wing commander, to head of "Fightertown, USA"—Paul Gillcrist flew the F—8 Crusader, F—4 Phantom, F—14 Tomcat, and a myriad of other tactical aircraft.

He took part in the Navy's transition to jet aircr...