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Top Knife - Fighter Pilot Tactics for Flight Docs

Top Knife is an incredible opportunity for USAF flight surgeons in which students spend 2 weeks engrossed in academics and operations in combat aviation.

By Rocky Jedick MD, MBA · · 6 min read

Lt Col Eric De-Mo Chumbley

This article discusses Top Knife - an awesome opportunity specifically designed for USAF flight surgeons to gain a firmer understanding on fighter and combat aircraft operations.

A LITTLE HISTORY OF TOP KNIFE

Former Top Knife Student Gift

In 1989, the Air National Guard's Fighter Surgeon's School at Kingsley Field was created with three purposes:

  1. Support the full time flying mission with a flight doc present
  2. Provide an advanced course and experience venue
  3. A retention tool to keep flight surgeons interested
Brigadier General Timothy Jex

COURSE SYLLABUS

OR ANG F-15's

The course immerses you in fighter ops with simulator time and actual F-15 flights. Graduates have confirmed that the simulator experience is an eye opener.

TK Student Lt Col Thomas Work

WHY TOP KNIFE?

Maj General Malcolm Grow

In 1942, General "Hap" Arnold mandated that every flight surgeon fly. He wanted his flight docs to walk the walk.

See also: AGSM Training | USAF Pilot-Physician Program

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