It was such an honor to photograph Richard Hoover for Paralyzed Veterans of America. PVA hired me last December to do this shoot, and I can only say that I left Richard’s home feeling so grateful to have met him, completely inspired by his stories, my heart full to the brim.

Richard Hoover was a fighter pilot in Vietnam and had flown 148 missions. As you might expect, this time was no walk in the park. He told me of bullets whizzing past the engines and propellers of his jets, many long intense hours in the air, and bombs going off near their camps as they slept at night. Visiting the latrine was a gambling with your life. Just unimaginable.

Even more unimaginable is what happened to him next. In 1973, working as an instructor and test pilot in Florida, the engines of his plane “flamed out,” and he ejected. However, his parachute never deployed, and he plummeted 2,000 feet into the Florida swamps. Miraculously he survived, but he had broken his back and became paralyzed.

Richard showed me the helmet he was wearing that day. He pulled it from one of the many bookshelves in his house along with a pack covered in patches from the many missions he flew. He rotated the white shell in his hands showing me the faded blood stains that weren’t able to be removed, serving as a reminder that he is lucky to be here today. His fingers traced the patches on the pack as he told me of its importance – important not only because of the history it displays, but because a friend of his and fellow veteran had saved it from the wreckage of the plane.

Richard has been incredibly grateful for what Paralyzed Veterans of America has done for him, and after serving as president of the organization for several terms, he’s now editor of PN magazine and Sports’n’Spokes.

It’s an understatement to say that it was beyond special to be able to make these photos of Richard. He told me so many amazing stories and time flew by as we chatted and made photos. Richard, what an honor to have met you. You’re a shining example of what it means to live life to its fullest, no matter the obstacles you must face. I tip my hat to you, sir. Thank you so much for your service, your sacrifices, and your beautiful spirit.

On the docket: weddings and portraits coming up!

Cheers,

-Kristine