Nickel On The Grass

About the Book

Nickel On The Grass is a series of vignettes that capture the life of an extraordinary aviator, fighter pilot and leader, Colonel Phil Handley. In a career that spanned 26 years "Hands" earned a reputation as an exceptional pilot and leader in war and peace. I do not know anybody who served with him who does not admire him for his dedication, integrity and courage.

The central theme of the stories he relates is that the fraternity of true fighter pilots is made up of men who share a love of adventure, have exceptional flying skills, are willing to risk all rather than admit defeat and believe earning the respect of their peers is their greatest accomplishment. The really good ones possess a sixth sense about people and machines that gives them an edge over mere mortals in the air and on the ground. This is a book about a man who lived most of the stories and counts among his friends and acquaintances the central characters in the others. It has been my privilege to have been his friend and fellow fighter pilot for the past 30 years.

General Ron Fogleman, USAF, Ret.
Chief of Staff, USAF, 1994–1997

About the Author

Within the U.S. Air Force fighter pilot community, the term ?throw a nickel on the grass? embodies an expression of mutual respect and good luck from one warrior to another. It stems from the refrain of an old Korean War barroom ballad? ?Throw a nickel on the grass, save a fighter pilot?s ass? and was later immortalized by an unknown author?s closing words in his Tribute to the Fighter Pilot?

?So here?s a nickel on the grass to you, my friend, and your spirit, enthusiasm, sacrifice and courage?but most of all to your friendship. Your?s is a dying breed and when you are gone, the world will be a lesser place.?

What that nickel is truly worth is described on these pages.