Category Archives: United States

Veterans Day 2022: Riding in Vietnam Helicopters

November 11, 2022Air Adventures, Travel Journal/Blog, United StatesArmy Aviation Heritage Foundation & Flying Museum, Huey Helicopters, UH-1 Huey Helicopter, Veterans Day, Vietnam WarDebi Lander

I typically recall elderly WWII Veterans when I think of Veterans Day parades and ceremonies. Sadly, in 2022, those Greatest Generation veterans have passed away. This year my mind turns to Vietnam Vets, especially after a recent helicopter ride.

Delta Company served in the Vietnam War. — The Delta Company Sign from the Vietnam War.

Army Aviation Heritage Foundation and Flying Museum

While in Hampton, Georgia, just outside Atlanta, I had the chance to ride in a UH-1 Iroquois “Huey” helicopter. The Huey was the chopper frequently used to bring and evacuate soldiers from hot spots in Vietnam.

Continue reading →

Debi Lander Wins First Prize in Writing Contest

September 15, 2022Destinations, Travel Journal/Blog, United Statesbamboo fly fishing rods, Bill Oyster, Debi Lander, first prize, fly fishing, SATW Eastern Chapter Media Contest, The Wizard of Blue RidgeDebi Lander

Bill Oyster: The Wizard of Blue Ridge

I’m thrilled to say I won first prize in the SATW Eastern Chapter Media Contest for Best Magazine Article in 2021. My article featured Bill Oyster: The Wizard of Blue Ridge, Georgia.

I invite you to read the winning article I wrote for DeSoto Magazine, published in October, 2021. Sadly, the magazine is no longer being published.

Continue reading →

First Timer’s Guide to St. Augustine

September 4, 2021Adventures, Land Adventures, Travel Journal/Blog, United StatesDebi Lander

History claims Ponce de Leon and his landing party first came ashore in La Florida on April 3, 1513. Nearby St. Augustine, in Northeast Florida, was founded in September 1565 by Don Pedro Menendez de Aviles of Spain. The town celebrated its 450th anniversary of its founding in 2015, making it the longest continually inhabited European-founded city in the United States.

My 2015 article was republished by Where Traveler Magazine. You can read it here: https://www.wheretraveler.com/st-augustine/st-augustine-guide-first-time-visitors.

I offer tips on what to see and do depending on your interest.