Five days til release day. Five. Oh my word, it’s nearly here. And six days ’til the launch party. That makes me a little nervous. I’ve never been fabulous at being the center of attention. But it will be fun! It’s not me at the center here… it’s God.
In the book, Cassidy is the Division Parachute Officer at Fort Bragg, in charge of the 82nd Airborne Division riggers, who pack the parachutes our guys jump. Today, I was looking at The Rigger’s Pledge online, and it got me to thinking… What if we lived our lives this way? Rather than beat you over the head with the obvious parallels, I thought I’d post the Pledge here and see what you think. Do you see the correlation between the Christian life and being a parachute rigger?
The Rigger’s Pledge
I will keep constantly in mind that until men grow wings their parachutes must be dependable.
I will pack every parachute as though I am to jump with it myself, and will stand ready to jump with any parachute which I have certified as properly packed.
I will remember always that the other man’s life is as dear to him as mine is to me.
I will never resort to guesswork, as I know that chance is a fool’s gold and that I, a rigger, cannot depend on it.
I will never pass over any defect, nor neglect any repair, no matter how small, as I know that omissions and mistakes in the rigging of a parachute may cost a life.
I will keep all parachute equipment entrusted to my care in the best possible condition, remembering always that little things left undone cause major troubles.
I will never sign my name to a parachute inspection or packing certificate unless I have personally performed or directly supervised every step, and am entirely satisfied with all the work.
I will never let the idea that a piece of work is “good enough” make me a potential murderer through a careless mistake or oversight, for I know there can be no compromise with perfection.
I will keep always a wholehearted respect for my vocation, regarding it as a high profession rather than a day-to-day task, and will keep in mind constantly my grave responsibility.
I will be sure-always.
-JB
Susan Manchester says
Are there going to be any more “rigger” books? I surely hope so, and I so appreciate the background on this important job. I am keeping this in mind for a homeschool topic.
Jodie says
Thank you, Susan! There aren’t any more rigger specific books planned, but there are two other military ones in the works. 🙂 You will surely hear me shouting if LIS picks them up.