Our Story
Landing a military helicopter in the desert environment often creates a tremendous dust cloud that envelopes the aircraft. Entering the cloud is often a disorienting experience for the crew as they quickly lose visual reference to the ground and their surroundings. This type of landing is affectionately known as a “brownout” and mastering them takes many hours of practicing what is essentially an controlled crash into the ground. A combination of respect and a bit of apprehension for this type of landing is something all military helicopter pilots share and understand. It is from these landings that our association takes its name. “Brownout” isn’t just a about aviation though. It’s also what happens when you lose visibility in life when encountering transitions and challenges. To successfully land these life “brownouts”, just as in the aircraft, it takes a whole crew to guide you through.
Our organization was formed by Naval Aviators during a overseas deployment. Noting the lack of an effective associations that seeks to keep the camaraderie and spirit of past of military aviation communities alive, Brotherhood of the Brownout was born. Through regular social functions Brownout enables our community to stay connected and look out for one another. We host networking functions to help ease the transition of our Brothers to the civilian world which like entering a dust cloud is often a disorienting and challenging experience. Composed of past or present military members, a strong sense of service runs deep and is nurtured through Brownout sponsored volunteer activities. Thank you for your interest and keep the spinning side up.
Brownout Leadership
Callsign: Stiffler
Co-Founder and Board Member
Stiffler is a gold winged chopper jockey who has spent the last 10+ years traveling the world while piloting our Nation’s most magnificent flying machines. He counts his lasting friendships as the most valuable asset from his time in service. Through Brownout he strives to help keep the veteran community connected both during and after their time in the military.
Callsign: Ra Ra
Co-Founder and Board Member
A barrel chested Boston College freedom fighter. Ra Ra is a gold winged patriot of the highest order with multiple overseas tours in defense of the Nation. Ra Ra’s boundless energy for helping his fellow veterans is only matched by his passion for flying Sikorsky made machines.