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Hi, Bobby:
I want to thank you for “Learjet 464 Juliet”, I just finished reading it
but first the “latino” preliminaries (Ha,Ha): I want to wish you and
your family a very Happy and Prosperous New Year, 2012, and may God
Bless you all...
Bobby, I really enjoyed every page of the book, reading it
intensely as if I was there because I could really appreciate it. I was
there in Santa Marta in National Jets lears several times while “Juliet”
was there, I saw her with all the tires flat, I think that I have a
picture of her next to my plane (one of NJI's 24's) as I recall, I just
have to ask my wife to help me find that picture. I know that on one
occasion I went down there on an air ambulance charter with this lady
whose husband had been injured in a plane crash too. They took her to
the hospital in an ambulance along with a doctor, and nurse but when I
went upstairs to file the flight plan they started hassling us, saying
that we did not have permission, and so forth, although I had the telex
from Aerocivil in Bogota in my hand. A guy who in my memory very well
fits your description of Barrata came out and said “that Learjet is not
going anywhere”, and told the guards to “push it back next to the other
one”. Well, they didn't as I immediately went to the terminal to call
old Tom Boy in Ft. Lauderdale, and I think that I myself called Major
Otalora, the D.O. of Aerocivil in Bogota to straighten it all out,
although they still said that we were supposed to land in Barranquilla
first to clear there before we proceeded to Santa Marta. Well after we
had it all cleared out we waited for about three hours for the ambulance
to get back but guess what without the patient nor his wife. They told
us that we had permission to leave but that the patient was not going
anywhere that day. So we left, and later when I asked the Doctor what
happened he told me that from what he could make out the patient's wife,
although she had brought some cash, started passing out hundred dollar
bills but before she knew it ran out of cash before any serious money
cut get into the big honcho's hands, and they denied his release.
I always hated to go to that Santa Marta hellhole, every time that I
went upstairs to file the flight plan it looked like those guys up there
were on dope, their eyes were always so red as I recall. I always tipped
everybody good but although I speak Spanish there always seemed to be
some problem or another, they looked at me like they always wanted more
money.
The last few times that I was in SKSM, after Juliet was gone, was with
this customer that NJI had, this tall good looking Colombian lady who
lived in New York, and spoke perfect English. Her name was Marlene
Davila, and she told me that her father was the Mayor of Santa Marta.
Every time as she got off the plane there she started passing out twenty
dollar bills to everybody, and on those flights everything went very
smooth for us.
But like I said I really enjoyed every page of your book as I recognized
some of the characters there such as Cowboy Jackson, Mel Cruder, Red
Gargaly
(this is the right spelling of his name, I know because he gave
me my CFI
back in 1968).
Thanks again for the book, and may God bless you, and
your family.
Sincerely,
Dan Diz
Weston, January 9, 2012
Hey Bobby,
I absolutely loved your book. I read it in one day and it
was the best book I believe I have ever read!
I couldn't put it down I just kept wondering what was going
to happen to you next. Even though I knew the ending since I
see you every week at the shop.
I kept thinking is he going to be able to get back to his
wife and children.
Thank you so much for sharing your story with us.
Linda Oliver,
Gilreath Printing & Signs, LLC
Hello Bobby,
I just finished reading Learjet 464
Juliet. Once I started reading the story, I couldn't put the
book down. The way you told the story I felt like I was there
with you, drinking Coke and eating fries, Ha. Ha. The more I
read, the more I enjoyed the next twist and turn at every
corner. It shows that when you want something bad enough,
its not impossible, but you get out what you put in to it. Thank
you and Terry for sharing your story, I read it in two days.
I
think this would make a great movie.
Ray and Rhonda Sweeten
GEARHEADS MOTORCYCLE SHOP
MANTECA, CALIF
Bobby,
Wanted to tell you I finished reading your book "464 Juliet" and
I am totally wrung out.
Truly enjoyed the pleasure and related too much to some of the
frustrations you went through. Thanks for the privilege of being
able to read your book. Can't say I never put it down once I
started reading it.
I will say that I lost some sleep staying up reading way past my
usual bedtime. I hate to have a good book end, makes me have a
kind
of lost and lonely feeling. Hope to see you at the Ashville, Al.
Slasham Valley Irregulars Flying Club before long. I am bubbling
over with questions.
Warmest Regards,
Tom English
WOW!
What a good book. When you told me about your book and the
troubles you went through to free Juliet from Columbia, I knew
it would be interesting. I am amazed at your determination and
resolve not to give up in spite of everything from government co rruption
to organized crime. Once I started reading I didn't want to
stop. In addition to making Harleys go fast you are an excellent
wordsmith. This makes me hope you will one day write a book
about your racing career.
Thanks for letting me read the book.
Allen Bishop
Bobby:
You have turned a truly trying experience into an absolutely
enjoyable read. Having spent a little time in the Middle East
and experienced the original version of "baksheesh"...(the
grease that allows the wheels of all business to turn), it seems
that the Colombians had raised that thousand year old custom to
a new world art form. You clearly have the patience of Job
which probably explains why you flew her out where the previous
"suitors" failed. Couldn't put it down...a great story for any
aviation fan.
Cliff Dawson
Town & Country Ford
Bobby. Just finished reading your book. Also I
couldn't put it down either. Even though I knew the final
outcome.
Tears came to my eyes when you described Terry's reaction.
Her tension and stress was palpable and now she was finally at
peace. Also you were a little too kind in your description of
her tolerance.
Love Brenda
I really enjoyed reading “Learjet 464
Juliet”. I couldn’t wait to get back to the book to find out what would
happen next and if you would be able to get 464 Juliet out of Columbia.
It was so interesting the way you described all of your problems with
the government, judges and lawyers and how everybody had their hands out
for payoffs. I’m really glad you finally met a lawyer who was able to
help you. I thought this was a great book.
Thank you,
Sue
Loved the book. Thanks for giving
it to bob. I usually don't read nonfiction books but this one I
couldn't put down. I felt like I was with you. The anxiety of all the
problems and counting the days till the plane left kept me on my toes.
I would lose track of time while reading it. It was an awesome journey
for everyone involved. Do you still have her? Thanks again for letting
me read.
Bob and Lynn Conger.
Conger Machine Fremont,Iowa
I'm
impressed Bobby. Very well written, int eresting
all the way through even suspenseful at times. Thank you for letting me
read it, I will recommend it to everyone.
Lee Moore
All I can say
is wow! and wow! I read quite a bit and I could not put this book down.
I had several dreams after some nights of reading the book and being
there and in tight spots and scary places. I was not surprised at your
determination and eventual success Bob. With our conversations and
dealings over the years I know you to be a man in front and ahead of the
pack. I also admire your family for always being there for you. That is
truly a blessing.
Thank you
Dave Roisen
Interstate Junction Motorcycles
Albert Lea MN
Congrats
Bobby
What a great book. Very inspirational. Shows how anything can be
accomplished if you want it bad enough. Its hard to believe how
different other countries work from ours. The U.S. Has its problems but
ill take in over anywhere else in the world. Thank you for writing and
letting me share your adventure with you. Its really cool to know a
little background about one of the heroes of the sport i love so much.
The book was riveting.
Couldnt put it down and now my mentor is reading the book and so far has
the same opinion. Thanks again for one of the best books
I've ever read.
Thanks,
Jamie Burkholder
Precision V Twins
Nesbit, MS
Wow,
just finished the book and what a read. The story is intriguing and
keeps you wanting more as the plot unfolds. Amazing how a person with a
strong will and desire to succeed can get you through the most difficult
of times! I need a epilogue to know what happened to 464 Juliet. Can't
wait to see the movie, wonder who will play Bobby? Nick Cage!!
Greg Kelley
Bobby ,
Very good book.
Really enjoyed reading it. It is a wonder you made it out of that
country alive. I can see you telling them all where to go as you left
out the final time. Terry asked if there was anything
I would like to see added or taken out after
I read the book and there were a few format changes
I'd make. Put a list of the players
in front of book, court orders in back. Loved
the book though you did a great job telling your story.
Charlie Burch,
Moody, AL
Bobby Wood is a re cent
friend and fellow pilot I met while working on my airplane at the Pell
City, AL. / St. Claire Co. airport. When Bobby mentioned his book was
being published I would pester him for a copy whenever we would have
lunch together. “Learjet 464 Juliet” is not only a lesson on
determination, patience and the courage of one man but also the
corruption in Columbia.
I enjoyed Bobby’s writing style, and the fact that he keeps the reader
involved, excited and sometimes angry, I kept cheering for Bobby’s
success throughout his adventure.
I’m a member of the Cessna 150-152 Club and will recommend this book to
the other members.
Don Fenton
N8140L
I loved the book,
Amazing story.
Author has great attention to detail the entire
time I was reading it all I could think was this story would be a
great movie. Todd Ginn
Hi Bobby,
Want to thank you for the “Learjet 464 juliet”. I absolutely loved the
book, it was very hard to put it down. It always kept me wondering what
was going to happen next, I really felt I was there with you going
through all the Columbian crap… I couldn’t believe all the delays they
kept putting you through, it seemed every time you had all the paperwork
inline, it was something else. It goes to show, if you have your heart
set on something, there is nothing to stop you. I’ll be waiting for a
movie, or maybe a second book you come out with….
Thanks so much Bobby, best wishes to you and the family.
Dr. Jim (Jim Jr)
Cycle Visions
Hey Bob,
Thanks for a great book. I read it in two days because it always kept
you wondering what would happen next. The timeline and attention to
detail is incredible. Now I know why we always eat at Steak N Shake.
You are truly a meat and potatoes kind of man. Learjet 464 Juliet proves
that any goal is attainable though determination and hard work.
Thanks again,
Mike Catalanoto
Mike Cat’s Cycle Works
New Orleans, Louisiana
Lear Jet 464 Juliet; a very
fascinating novel that held my attention from cover to cover. This story
is a story for possible future movie. It is loaded with intrigue,
determination, greed, double cross, scam, adventure, despair, fear, and
joy. A story filled with unbelievable obstacles that would have driven a
normal person insane. I would recommend this book to everyone that has a
love of aviation in
any
way. Also to anyone that loves an action packed true story of one man's
dream. To acquire an aircraft that he desired so much that he placed his
life on the line to obtain his goal. I'm left some what exhausted
wondering about the aftermath of the whole adventure.
Lakin Cross
What a
great adventure! Great read and thanks to Bobby Wood for sharing his
captivating story and “making it happen”.
Donald P. Dufresne, Esq.
West Palm Beach, Florida
Awesome book Bobby
read it start to finish in 2 days with some sleep in between.
Steve Gaines
March 7, 2012
I just finished Learjet 464 Juliet by Bobby Wood.
The author takes you on a fact filled trip of the pitfalls involved in
dealing with the military and the government of Columbia when trying to
remove a jet plane from their country.
Let me stress on the term fact filled. Bob had to endure what's called
the Dinero Syndrome all the way through the book to the end.
Everybody has their hand in your pocket and nobody's in a hurry. How Bob
could remember all of the details in his struggle to free this plane is
beyond me.
Also the bullshit he had to put up with while trying to remove this
plane legally.
He never mentions in the book about heartburn, but I'm sure that
Alka-Seltzer and Tums stock rose off the chart. If you've ever had a
desire to visit Columbia this book might change your mind. Very
interesting. I think I'll go have a Coke and some French Fries.
Paul Hannan
I enjoyed the book very much. I
hope others will read and be as proud of your dedication and
resourcefulness as I was. Your friends that joined you in your quest to
free 464Juliet must have made you very proud and humble,
friends like that are rare. Bravo to all.
Paul Wolfe
Thank you Bobby for such an
excellent book. I could not put the book down. I was always wanting to
know what was going to happen next. Thank you again. Martha Elliott
Mr. Bobby, the book was a great read.
Thanks for chopping it up in shorter, easier to read chapters instead of
long , drawn out chapters that go forever. I'm a fan of "secret history"
and this book reveals a lot of "secret history". American cops and
servicemen are angels and saints compared to those in Columbia! It also
showed how down and dirty our federal government can be. The actions of
the judges and lawyers in Columbia just reinforces my opinion on that
particular profession worldwide. The book also showcases that our
government does things that we think only other governments do!
Anyway, a great book that should be made into an HBO mini-series!
Alan Shaddix
This was an amazing book - about
organized crime, corruption in government and red tape that can be
endless. It was VERY hard to put down and to think that this is a true
story! Bobby Wood is a true Christian and a smart business man - the
perseverance he and only he had to conquer this major feat. O, what
games greedy people will play - but Bobby found a way to come out the
better person. Very good read - will recommend to my friends for sure.
Mary Smith
Bobby,
I absolutely loved your book! I am a very busy mother of 3 with a
full time job, so getting to read is rare for me, but I couldn't stop
reading this wonderful story. This life story is truly inspirational and
very suspenseful! I think this should be a movie! Thank you for allowing
me to read this book, I am very impressed by the motivation and faith
you have to accomplish your dreams, and the patience your wonderful wife
has. This was truly a blessing to read, kept me on the edge the whole
time wondering what was gonna happen next, but also very inspiring with
a true life lesson at the same time. The last sentence was the perfect
ending. I would quote it, but someone may read the review before the
book and.. well, my advice is get it and read it for yourself, you will
not be disappointed! Thanks again Bobby for sharing this with the me! I
absolutely loved it!
God Bless,
Misty McCutcheon
Bobby,
I am an avid reader, mechanic and a pilot. It is not often that I find a
book so engrossing that I can hardly stand to put it down. I finished it
in less than two days.
I felt like I was there, right alongside of you during the entire
adventure. The imagery was so vivid I could feel the dusty streets under
my feet and the dagger-like stares of the corrupt officials.
I have often driven by aircraft boneyards and think about bringing one
of those beauties back from beyond. I was immediately caught up in your
quest to repair and recover the stranded Juliet. Just the excitement of
not knowing is she could be ever be made to fly again would in itself
made for a great story. Add in the international intrigue and I was on
the edge of my seat the entire time. If this story weren’t true it would
not be believable.I would fly with you in a plane with a nose full of
rocks any time………….
Michael
I just wanted to write a note about your book 464Juliet .
I have not read a novel since high school but I was enthralled with this
book I finished it at about 4am, excellent read. it has been a few weeks
since and I read your book and I still think about it. What ever
happened to 464Juliet?
Bobby,
Just finished your book, wow! I could see you and feel your frustration
and helplessness all along the way. Although I’ve never been to two
Santa Marta, I don’t think I’ll be going. It is a good feeling that even
in a place so corrupt that you can still find a couple good people that
you can call friend. I couldn’t help thinking while I reading that this
would be a great movie. The book described the situation so well it was
like a movie playing in my head! Thanks for the ride,
Joe Snell
Thank you Bobby and Terry for
sending us Learjet 464 Juliet, it was not a fast read for me. I just
finished it,I wasn't sure till the end what would happen, I kept telling
Bruce he is not going to get that plane out of that crazy country.
I believe your wife must be a saint. The story was intriguing.
I will miss Raul and all.
Sharon
Bobby, what a great read! I couldn’t
put it down until I finished it. Your determination was incredible, I
think anyone else would have given up long before. I hope you write
another book, maybe your top fuel racing career or some adventures you
have had in the motorcycle world? You have a great talent in your
writing, I thoroughly enjoyed it!Thank
you,
Justin Sampson
2577 North 200 West
North Logan, Utah 84341
What an amazing story!!!! Bobby Wood
calls it nonfiction, and as this story unravels, you can see why, and
why it took this many years before the story could be told. The
corruption, both political and underworld. The unbelievable
corruption in Columbia
and the underhanded dealings in our own
Government. As this story continues, one can see Bobby
Wood's faith. Faith in himself, and his faith
in God.
His determination comes through when he explains “Plan B” if
his “Plan A” does not work out for 464 Juliet. It is written in the
style of a personal diary and I could not leave the story for long,
wanting to know what the next day, next night or next week might hold in
store. The great accomplishments, and then numerous setbacks with the
only explanation because “That's the
way things are done here.”
Then having to deal several times with people that might possibly kill
you any minute!
His leadership shows when his team tells him they would be willing to go
with him.
You'll have to read it to see what he does.
...High Desert Mike
Bobby,
Just finished your book and really enjoyed it. You can see from the
recent scandals involving the Secret Service that Colombia hasn't
changed a bit since you were there. We're not hearing the real story of
course, but it seems likely that Obama didn't pay the proper bribes and
they found a way to screw him. I would like to know what happened to
the airplane, I couldn't find any info at all on the FAA site, does that
mean it's now history, or are you saving that story for another book?
Thanks again for a great book....
Doug Smith
Dear Bobby: Wow! I just
finished reading 464 Juliet. I think this is the only book I ever read
that I found myself thinking about before I sat down the next night to
continue reading. Our backgrounds are amazing familiar. I spend four
years building nitro engines from 1970 to 1974, then five years as a
commercial plot for a side business I had, and then five more years
doing undercover aviation work for the FBI. Then thirty years in the
insurance business with continual dealings with Lloyds of London.
During the first part of the book I tried to figure out exactly what was
involved, and then the last part of the book thoroughly convinced NO ONE
could ever get the jet our of Columbia. When I looked at the wording of
the final chapter “Juliet’s flight to freedom” I couldn’t believe it!
This is truly an incredible book. Hats off to you and your family. I
only hope some day this could be made into a movie. What a thriller that
would be. Thank you again for some of the finest reading I have ever
had. Bill Sowle
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Bill Sowle |
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Vice President |
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P:217-321-3106 |
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F:217-528-5771 |
Hi Bobby,
It’s been years since I last saw you. As Jim Boy’s son-n-law I have been
around the South Florida aviation scene since the “Seventies”. I always
remember you and your company as one of the finest.
The world has really changed since then. I’m not sure it’s for the
better and it sure is nowhere near as exciting!. There are many stories
from around these parts that though true, are hard to believe. Seeing
the names of Mrs. Swimmer, Bill Everett and Red Garglay was a kick. Bill
gave me a letter one day and ordered me to go take the A&P exam. He is
quite a guy. The first airplane I signed off, crashed on the way out to
the taxiway!. ,There were some really good folks at the FAA back then.
I remember being hit up on every flight to Mexico and Colombia for fees
with different prices the difference being whether you got a receipt or
not. Reading the Saga of N464J reminded me what my life was like every
time we had a flight down south. God Bless the USA!
I finished 464 Juliet last weekend and could not put it down. I hope
people give it a read and take a trip along with you into the fray and
beyond. They will not be disappointed!
Thanks for the ride!
George Fredlund
Dear Bob,
I was very interested when I seen you were putting this
book out. I am not going to lie I haven’t sat down and read a book since
high school, so I figured it may take me awhile. I couldn’t believe how
fast I read this book! I seriously could not put it down, I couldn’t
wait to get home from work each night and stuff my face back into this
book. All I can say is what a crooked &$&$*(*&)(&()*^$ing country. I
could not imagine trying to go through all of that. The money, stress,
etc. I really was sucked into this book the whole time. the only problem
I had was trying to keep everybody straight. there was a lot of people
you were dealing with. about 3/4 of the way through I pretty much had
most of the people down on who they were and there roll in this mess you
went through. very excited to meet you in a month and talk about this
book with you. I have also passed the book on to some family to read.
hope they like it, I sure did.
thank you
justin grobe
Bobby, When I got home after the Cincy
MC show I curled up in my favorite chair and I immersed myself in 464
Juliet. I really couldn't put it down. I thought perhaps my
experiences with you at Thomson drag raceway was influencing my interest
as the book unfolded (not so). I have two pilot friends in Memphis
that I sent the book to. Jim Ross is a Navy retired Blue Angel and
current MD11 pilot for Fed Ex. Joe Kaferie is a retired True
Temper ex. Joe and I were partners in a Turbo Bonanza which we
kept at the drag strip for years. Both Jim and Joe really enjoyed
your book finding it as I, difficult to put down. Joe went it on
to Bob Doss of Gold Agency fame (another pilot) residing in Tucson,
Arizona. Bob and I have stayed close over the years. Bob will send
you his reflections on your 464 Juliet adventure as well. I
certainly wish you the best with the book and in life. What an
adventure 464 Juliet became. the depth of corruption is very hard
to understand and believe. As a citizen of the U.S. who grew up in
rural country, a Ford line mechanic and a drag racer who became a drag
strip promoter. What a great country this is. Hopefully the
young people of this country will pass on these advantages to future
generations. Bobby, you are a real credit to the USA as well as an
inspiration to our generation.
Thanks,
George Eisenhart,
Driver "the Crockett Rock" Offshore Powerboat, World Champions, 2012
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