As I travel the country sharing Civil War Balloon Corps Living History many who come by my display or listen to my lectures are surprised to learn that I actually flew balloons before injuries from my Army Service eventually grounded me in December 2010.  Learning that I really know ballooning opens the door to discussion of a lifetime of memories many of you helped create.  Their smiles get bigger and the flood gates open. I know you’ve heard their stories before: “I got a balloon ride for my birthday.”; “A balloon landed in my yard – or – flew over my house.”; “I flew in Egypt, Africa, or another exotic location.”; “The pilot let me help inflate or pack up.”; . . . . and occasionally I’ll get the “bad experience” with the comment: “I’m not doing that again!”  Of course there are those who say “Not me!  I’m afraid of heights!” Recently, another living historian at an event at San Fransisco’s Historic Fort Point, located at the base of the Golden Gate Bridge, couldn’t wait until I arrived to tell me that she got to crew for Tim and Sheri Gale at the Sanoma County Hot Air Balloon Classic and was surprised to hear “yes, we know Kevin!” after mentioning my name.  Although weather didn’t permit a free flight, she was excited to tell me about her experience and how fun it was even to go up on tether.  Her excitement grew and she was even more surprised when I asked her to stand with me by my display, handed someone my phone for a picture, and then messaged it to Tim & Sheri confirming we really do know each other!! This weekend two fellow Special Forces Veterans contacted me to let me know they were at separate balloon festivals.  The first linked up with and crewed for Luke and Pam Cesnik and the POW/MIA Balloon at the Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic; and the second was with his wife at the Colorado Springs Labor Day Lift Off.  At each event, you, my friends, made them feel welcomed, entertained, and wanting to share their experiences with everyone they know!  Thank you! As a Corporate Pilot we used to and still say that you can take a client out to the best restaurant in town and buy them the most expensive or their favorite meal.  Two years later they might remember the evening, the meal, and some of the conversation.  Take them for a balloon flight and they’ll tell everyone they know about their experience for years to come.  You’ve created a lifetime memory.  That’s the Magic of Ballooning!

Story by Kevin Knapp.  Learn more about the author HERE