Packing Parachutes

Presented at Circle Up on 11/5/2019

A Navy pilot completed hundreds of hours of training and then flew dozens of combat missions. He shot down dozens of enemy planes, bombed many targets, and earned a chest full of medals, along with higher ranks. He was quite proud of his accomplishments.
On one mission, a crucial piloting error allowed an enemy missile to disable his jet and he was forced to bail out. His parachute deployed and he landed safely in the ocean. As he floated for two days waiting to be rescued he had plenty of time to think back over his career.
When the helicoptor finally picked him up and returned him to his ship, he went directly to the flight equipment room. He asked to speak with all the sailors that worked there.
When they were all assembled, he thanked them for packing his parachute. He explained that it took being shot down to make him understand how much he took for granted the labors of others that made his job possible – the mechanics, the flight crew, the cooks, and even the parachute packers. It took everyone completing their duties to make each mission a success.

Everyone has tasks to perform and they should do their very best no matter how glamorous or dreary the task may be. Even what seems to be the least significant task may have an impact down the road.
People in highly visible roles need to appreciate those that support them.

Reference: https://boyscouttrail.com/content/minute/packing_parachutes-1714.asp