Edward_Scout

I'm a firefighter/EMT and was once on a flight where they made an announcement asking for anyone with medical training to assist in the rear of the cabin. A passenger had become unresponsive and had some pretty serious medical issues going on. Myself, a nurse, and 2 FA's were working together in a cramped space to help this person while a 3rd FA was relaying information (not sure if they were talking to the deck or ground).

Thankfully we were already on initial approach so didn't have to divert but it was clear we would be met on the tarmac by rescue as we didn't have time to taxi to the gate. As we're doing our best for this individual a woman approaches and loudly says "um you need to move, I can't get to my bag, it's in that overhead." I'm sure one of the FA's was about to politely tell her to go away but another passenger got to her first with a very loud "Hey bitch this guy might be dying I'm sure your bag can wait. Sit the fuck down."

In the midst of a very serious situation, I couldn't help but notice that all three FA's had that smile that says "I could never keep my job and say that, but I'm glad someone else did."

Cheers to you for doing a job where some people treat you like a servant who's beneath them.

As a former Sailor I can tell you that ANY high value asset is afforded protections appropriate to the perceived threat and its value. To steal a line from Top Gun "a cargo plane full of rubber dog shit" probably doesn't warrant any kind of escort. A Nuclear Aircraft Carrier doesn't leave port without several other ships accompanying her and will maintain a combat ready status at all times.

I have no direct experience with Comfort or Mercy but I would imagine the Navy considers them to be rather important. Suffice to say they are protected.

Having done the enlisted side of the Nuclear propulsion training, I can say that most of the material available to the public on the internet is accurate and the secret squirrel stuff is usually only specific details about otherwise public knowledge systems.

Robert,

Your book Shadow Divers really drew me into the SCUBA world in a big way. I'm honestly surprised to hear that you're not a diver yourself as you capture the experience in a phenomenal way. Alas, I don't really have a question for you just wanted to say thanks for the great reads!

John C,

Your website has been a great resource for me as a developing diver. Your post about the "big knife" entertained me greatly. As someone who's looking to work my way towards tec level diving, is any particular agency/organization "better" than another? I've got a PADI OW c-card and am now working with an SSI shop for AOW.

John M,

I regret to say that I'm unfamiliar with your work but a general SCUBA question for you while I do some of my own research. What was it that drew you, personally, to wreck diving? With the many options available for both recreational and commercial divers I'm always interested in what draws more seasoned divers in specific directions.

Thanks for doing this AMA!