‘Fini flight’ proves bittersweet for vice wing commander

  • Published
  • By Karen Abeyasekere
  • 100th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
RAF MILDENHALL, England --  As aircraft tail number 8879 taxied onto the hardstand May 10, its pilot felt a pang of sadness as the fire trucks sprayed an arch of water in his direction.
Marshaled in by his wife, Kim, Col. Mike Callis, 100th Air Refueling Wing vice commander, flew his final flight before preparing to leave RAF Mildenhall.

Colonel Callis has orders to become the Headquarters Air Mobility Command deputy inspector general, at Scott Air Force Base, Ill., and he said his "fini" flight was particularly poignant because he probably won't be flying in his new position.

According to Air Force News Service, when pilots completed their 100th combat mission during the Vietnam War, the ensuing final, or "fini," flight included a bottle of champagne to celebrate a safe last landing and the end of their tours.

"Flying my fini flight at the 100th (ARW) was a bittersweet event," said Colonel Callis. "It was a sad feeling to know each event - be it engine start, takeoff or landing - was my last. But I was happy knowing I was able to fly with two true patriots and warriors, Capt. Brad Stevens, (100th Operations Support Squadron,) and Master Sgt. Larry Lewis (351st Air Refueling Squadron)," he said.

"They exemplify the exceptional Air Force personnel from across Team Mildenhall that I've had the privilege of serving with over the past 22 months.

"I felt a pang of sadness in my heart as I rolled out on my final landing, but it quickly swelled with pride as I taxied beneath the arch of water provided by our Fire Dawgs and saw my wife, Kim, marshalling me into parking," he added. "Flying in the Air Force has always been my dream and my passion, so despite the sad moments, I still know I'm blessed to be living my dream."