CHAMPAGNE FLIGHT

By Yul CL 126-05

          APRIL 30, 2010 - The Army Aviation Battalion Light Armor Division had marked another milestones in its history as lone aviation unit of the Philippine Army. A day blessed with a good weather and clear skies when the Commander, LAD, MGEN SAMUEL D NARCISE, AFP took his historic Champagne Flight at Fort Magsaysay Aerodrome. The Champagne Flight is a ceremonial flight given to a military aviator leaving the active military service. MGEN NARCISE, an accomplished pilot served with much efficiency and skilled performance has lead the team armor, specially the aviators team to what it is today.          

          Prior to his scheduled flight, MGEN NARCISE attended pre-flight briefing at the battalion VIP lounge which was conducted by the safety officer MAJ ELBERT P CELIS (CAV) PA . The briefing was witnessed by the officers and men coming from LAD, 7ID and other Post Unit Commanders. After the briefing, Pre-Flight Inspection (360 Inspection) followed. MGEN NARCISE together with the designated co-pilot meticulously inspected the aircraft, a Cessna 172 to ensure its airworthiness.

          “Instruments are okay, the aircraft is ready, the pilot is ready, then MGEN NARCISE boarded the aircraft (PA 072). He then requested clearance for departure from the control tower. The air traffic controller readily gave the clearance for departure (take-off) with the necessary traffic and weather advisory. ”Full-power, right yes to the front, center line, steady hold, then rolling sir!” Words and phrases that echoed inside the cockpit signifying the take off run for the memorable champagne flight.” INSTRUMENTS ON THE GREEN AND AIRSPEED IS ALIVE, airborne sir! The first sortie is a low-slow flight wherein the airplane will pass over the runway at about 300 feet above ground level (AGL), flying at about 70 knots airspeed. On the second approach, MGEN NARCISE called the air traffic controller and requested for clearance to land. As expected, being a seasoned aviator, made a smooth and perfect landing. Alighting from the aircraft, MGEN NARCISE was welcomed by overwhelmed well-wishers. Filled with greatness and joy, the DC was overwhelmed as he was offered with a toast for the outstanding flight.

          After the ceremonial flight, a short program followed and it ended with a giving of a memento to MGEN NARCISE. The said memento is a replica of Army 072 aircraft (Cessna 172M), the one he piloted during his Champagne flight. To Sir Sammy, Congratulations for a job well done, let your person be seen and your deeds be heard as it marks in the history for our subordinates to emulate. Have a fair weather and clear skies as you take your next step of your journey.