I just watched the National Geographic Discovery Channel docs on Air Force One and Marine One. The former was much better than the latter. They were both enjoyable.
I am astounded by the scope and size of the presidential flying fleet. I felt uncomfortable seeing the Patrician service on-board Air Force One. At some point, even for POTUS, it can go over the top.
There is a little footage from President Obama’s first flight included. It seemed like he too was overwhelmed by the service. There’s nothing in the real world that even comes close or could prepare you.
The Marine One doc was less compelling because the mission is less compelling. The writer tried to add a touch of reality TV by making a story line of one wannabe pilot’s pursuit of the job. I suspect by the time he was chosen to train, he was chosen. You know what I mean?
If Air Force One is the show, Marine One is the Franklin Shuttle.
I am left pondering whether the president really has to live this lifestyle? I’m not saying the President of the United States isn’t the most powerful person in the world. It’s just what I saw just doesn’t seem appropriate in a nation where the leader is freely elected from the people.
We don’t have royalty here. We don’t need royal treatment.