i have a bunch of buddies that are ex-military in the sport....skydiving has literally changed/saved my life! it's given me an escape from all the Monday-Friday crap, and literally gives you a new perspective on life with regards to what is important and why you should let the little stuff slide! I know that sounds like another cheesy zen-crap-like philosophy but it is true....I started jumping 7 years ago, have made 1000+ jumps, have an instructor rating (and will be getting a second this year), have been hospitalized twice from injuries, and lost 3 good friends to the sport....and I will jump until the day I die!
what is your buddy's name? the skydiving world is fairly small, maybe I have met him before....
This was in the early 1960's. His name was Gene Hamilton. I saw that he died last November. He was 69 years old.