Flying in Alaska — The Last Frontier

The article "Flying in Alaska — The Last Frontier" by Will Dabbs, MD, recounts the author's experiences serving in the U.S. Army in Alaska. Initially desiring to be stationed in Europe, Dabbs was instead sent to Alaska, where the climate and environment were drastically different from his home in the Deep South. Despite the initial challenges, he adapted to the harsh conditions, including extreme cold and extensive snow, and embraced the unique opportunities for flying Chinook helicopters in such a rugged landscape.

Dabbs describes Alaska's vast and remote wilderness with a sense of awe, noting its immense size and natural beauty. As an operations officer for a CH-47D helicopter unit, he had the chance to fly across the state, perform high-altitude rescues, and witness the untouched landscapes. His time in Alaska also involved profound survival experiences and encounters with the state's diverse wildlife, including bears and wolves. These experiences, while challenging, were deeply formative and brought Dabbs a great sense of adventure and accomplishment.

Reflecting on his military service, Dabbs highlights the demands and rewards of his assignments. His missions included recovering downed aircraft and resupplying remote radar stations, often under extreme weather conditions. The article concludes with Dabbs expressing gratitude for his deployment in Alaska, acknowledging the lifelong memories and stories he gathered. To read more about his incredible journey, visit the original article, Flying in Alaska — The Last Frontier.