Call Sign Kluso: The Story of an American Fighter Pilot in Mr. Reagan's Air Force

Rick "Kluso" Tollinis, an eagle pilot, has lived a life that reflects his childhood dreams and the reality of the American experience. He joined the Air Force as a pilot in his late twenties and was assigned to fly the F-15 Eagle with the "Dirty Dozen" at Kadena AB, Japan. His first combat deployment was Desert Storm, where he recounts the planning, preparation, and missions of a fighter pilot in a combat zone. His aerial victory was one of 16 accumulated by the Gorillas, the most by any squadron during Desert Storm. Returning from the combat skies of Iraq, Rick continued a successful Air Force career until he turned to Buddhism and found a new vocation. He came to a deeper understanding of the importance of our shared humanity.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 192 pages
\n Publication date: 15 March 2021
\n Publisher: Casemate Publishers
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Eagle pilot Rick "Kluso" Tollinis life has been a remarkable journey that has seamlessly merged childhood dreams with the harsh realities of the American experience. In his captivating memoir, Call Sign Kluso, Rick takes readers on a journey through the pivotal moments that shaped his life, from his early days of flying to his involvement in the iconic Desert Storm.

Rick's first encounter with the world of aviation occurred when he was just a small boy, soaring through the skies in a Piper PA-18 over the picturesque landscapes of California. His passion for flying grew steadily as he nurtured it under the guidance of his pilot father, eventually leading him to make the decision to join the Air Force as a pilot in his late twenties.

Throughout his training, Rick's fighter pilots were prepared to face the imminent threat posed by the Soviet Union. However, fate had other plans in store for him. His first combat deployment was during the infamous Desert Storm, where he found himself in the heart of the action.

Rick vividly recounts the intricate planning, rigorous preparation, and the adrenaline-fueled missions that characterized life as a fighter pilot in a combat zone. He shares the challenges, the camaraderie, and the sheer exhilaration of engaging in aerial warfare. His account is a testament to the bravery and resilience of those who have served in the military.

Among the many highlights of Rick's military career, his aerial victory was one of the most remarkable. As a member of the 58th Tactical Fighter Squadron, known as the "Gorillas," Rick contributed to the success of the squadron by securing 16 aerial victories during Desert Storm. This achievement was the highest by any squadron during the conflict.

Returning from the combat skies of Iraq, Rick continued to serve the Air Force with distinction until he encountered a profound turning point in his life. Struggling to make sense of his experiences and seeking a deeper sense of purpose, Rick turned to Buddhism. His practice led him on a journey of self-discovery, which ultimately led him to leave the Air Force and pursue a new vocation.

Through his exploration of Buddhism, Rick gained a profound understanding of the importance of our shared humanity. He realized that the adversities and challenges he had faced during his military service were not unique to him but were shared by countless others throughout history. This realization inspired him to embark on a mission to promote compassion, understanding, and peace in the world.

In conclusion, Rick's life is a testament to the power of dreams, resilience, and the pursuit of a meaningful purpose. His journey from a young boy with a passion for flying to a decorated Eagle pilot and a dedicated advocate for peace has inspired countless others to pursue their own dreams and strive for a better world. Call Sign Kluso is a must-read for anyone who seeks to understand the complexities of the human experience and the profound impact that service to others can have on our lives.

\n Weight: 476g\n
Dimension: 161 x 236 x 24 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781612009810\n \n