Mister and I walked to the stadium and we were joined by one of his aunts at the game. I can't remember the last September game that wasn't bloody hot, but this was a cool fall day and really quite perfect for a football game.
University of Michigan Hospital helicopters flew over the stadium before the game. I knew that wasn't the fly over, however. I'd heard and seen military planes over my home a couple days before the game. I assumed we'd see jet trainers overhead at the start of the game since I didn't recognize them as any combat aircraft I've ever seen.
During the national anthem, an actual live Bald Eagle was released in the stadium where it flew around before landing on the handler's arm. That was freaking cool.
Then, the real fly over took place. A B-2 Spirit stealth bomber flew over the stadium in all its quiet bat-shaped awesome scariness. I looked at my son and said, "Well, we aren't bombing Iran today--we have only 19 of those." We had a fly over by one of those in a past year, if I remember correctly. As then, the plane is remarkably quiet compared to conventional jet fighters that have screamed over before a game.
And then, as if the pre-game treats weren't enough, Medal of Honor recipient Leroy Petry was on the field for the pre-game coin toss. Very cool.
Oh, and we beat the Air Force Academy in a game way too close for my taste. Mister was happy for the win and nothing could spoil that end result for him.
During the game, I couldn't bring myself to join the "you suck" chants when the cadets would fail to make a third down conversion, however. This was only the second time we'd played them. I hope they enjoyed the stadium.
And thanks for bringing the B-2.
This is how to start a college football season.
