I'm 21 and in a similar position as Trey or S.H. Jr. , born into the right circumstances. I've been extremely fortunate to get many, many hours in all kinds of different warbirds -- my first airplane ride ever was in an L-17 in a car seat. In my life, I've gotten experience (I won't say hours, because not all of it is log-able) in everything from Ercoupes to Albatrosses. Warbirds is the reason I got my license and its my main reason for going to the airport any chance I can get. People ask me what degree I am taking in college, and what I want to do with my life, and my answer is always: "make enough money such that I can afford not only to fly, but to fly warbirds". It is my one true passion. I don't mean just Mustangs either. I've enjoyed some of the warbirds I've flown in so much, like the Albatross or Skymaster, that I would definitely want to own one in the future. It is fact that earlier generations will not be around forever and we need up and coming people to take up the torch not only to keep the airplanes flying, but also to remember their original purpose and why it is necessary to keep them flying, not just so we can dress up and play Maverick. People (some on this site included) rag on organizations like Red Bull or the CAF for their marketing stickers on the sides of their airplanes. IMHO, the airplane could have polka dots for all I care, as long as it is flying (no offense Eric

). However these two organizations are examples of the future generations doing what it takes, in an increasingly costly world, to keep flying the airplanes that we cherish, and for that they have my respect. I also think that it befalls those of us privileged enough to be in positions where we have access to warbirds to do what we can to get the word out and increase awareness and participation not only from other aviation groups but from the public as well.