Greetings Lee;
I've just joined SB & find someone w/ very similar life travel. Coast Guard Flight Engineer & Mechanic ('76-'80), Elizabeth City, NC. Once in FL the wife & I got certified '83 and I've moved forward from there. I've taught since '88, gone on to Cave & TriMix for my personal desire to one day dive the wrecks of the Great Lakes.
Bought my retirement (28 years as firefighter / paramedic) truck from a USCG buddy in Charlotte. NC would be our home choice if FL becomes tiresome.
Ask away. It is a pleasure to share the joys & tips of sport diving. Perhaps we'll cross pathes along the ocean floor. You're only as old as you feel. 53 is the new 43.
Paul (Ford trucks, former GM dork) Sumner
Paul, My wife works in Charlotte and makes the hour long drive each day as we are @ an hour northwest... You ever make it to this are please feel free to stop on by for a beer or three.
Sorry to hear about that "Ford" issue...
Regards, lee