Well, there’s another one in the bag! It hasn’t really been established what I’m about to write “2021” on the checks. Growing up, that date always seemed so far away, something reserved for science fiction, not reality. But here we are! A new decade full of possibilities and a fantastic time to reflect on all the good in our lives, as well as on areas we could also do better. One of those things I’m so grateful for is that you’re all. I get it, we feel like a lot of companies and speakers may seem like a boiler thing, but it really isn’t. I do what I love to make a living. There’s not a day that wakes me up, no matter what, that I don’t think about how lucky I am to have such an amazing place to debate on topics that I’m passionate about and that I just have. part of this equation.
This place is what it is because there are so many people who take the time to help make it special. The hours Joe Trevithick spends and the dedication he shows for the subject never ceases to amaze me. He also takes care of my crazy hours, my demand a lot concrete product and the weird rabbit holes we go down daily, but you probably already know that. I couldn’t do it without him. He deserves so much credit.
This year new voices have been incorporated into our hearts. Brett Tingley has evolved to become an amazing feature writer for deep research on topics that are almost unexplored. I am amazed at his growth and the thoroughness of his impressive work. I can’t wait for what comes after him.
Chris “Ox” Harmer has written amazing stories and given us the unique perspective that only a veteran Navy helicopter pilot can do with thousands of hours.
Tim McMillan has been a real joy working with him and seeing how it was done. He’s the best old school researcher I know. If he does not find the person or thing, no one can find him.
John Denton, one of our most prolific commentators and a man with two decades of experience in special operations, has also entered the editorial contest with great success. I am so excited to see more of him in the future.
Beyond the new regulars, there are many others who have worked tirelessly to tell stories that need to be told …their stories. From the life and times of Francesco “Paco” Chierici Intruders, Tomcats and F-5, to our beloved Ancient Subhunter, Kevin Noonan, and his love affair with the Viking S-3, and many more, these are the pieces that take so much time and effort that few outlets strive even to try with these companies.
Below are all of our sources, open source intelligence collectors, and contacts on social media that provide so many leads and key details that make our work rise above the struggle. I cannot stress enough the value they bring to our daily production. They often do this knowing that no credit can be given. A really selfless support for the work we do.
Our defense counterparts who post fantastic content on a daily basis also need an honorable mention. Often, their stories allow us to get into our own special treatments on the topics. Steve Trimble, defense editor of Aviation Week, is like an honorable member of the team. He is often the first person I contact when I need to bounce something. Such an amazing resource and a fantastic guy who absolutely loves the subject. Like us, it’s not just a job, it’s a lifestyle!
In addition, all of our defense industry communications representatives and Department of Defense public affairs officers, some of whom provide us with key information in incredibly fast periods of time, are just as valuable. We can’t thank them enough.
One of the most unique things about The war zone is that it is not just a website, but a community. Our comment crew, many of whom have been with me for years, are absolutely so magical. They are an amazing resource for all things, including laughter, and bring this place to life with its great speech, its poignant personal stories, and its ingenious ingenuity. One of the highlights of my workday is slowing down and reading only what is going on in the comments. Is it like that May boring.
One of the elements that the reader does not see is our amazing management, administrative and owner team. They fully support what we do to an amazing degree and allow us to focus on the product. We are really happy to work with people who are so smart, committed and motivated. In a nutshell, it’s the best global and most cohesive team I’ve ever worked with, anywhere. A rare thing at this time and time of business turmoil.
Last but not least, it is you! Our readers! We survive because you come back every day. Share our posts on social media and tell your friends the unique place it is. When you open your browser to work and consult us, it means more to us than you will ever know. I can’t thank them enough for continuing with us and spreading the gospel about what we offer here daily.
The war zone the new year will continue to evolve and grow — or should say a decade — in great ways. There are no limits to what we can achieve with these partners and readers so dedicated to our orbit.
That said, this is a good time to ask yourself what you like and what you want to know more about us in 2021. Let us know in the comments below.
I wish you and your families much prosperity and happiness during the new year!
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