Pilot was ready to die stopping Flight 93 on 9/11 - Tango Alpha Lima

Pilot was ready to die stopping Flight 93 on 9/11 - Tango Alpha Lima

Author: The American Legion September 8, 2026 Duration: 1:19:52

On Sept. 11, 2001, Air Force 1st Lt. Heather "Lucky" Penney launched from Andrews Air Force Base in an unarmed F-16 with orders to stop United Flight 93 by ramming it, if that's what it took.

Twenty-five years later, on the eve of the 25th 9/11 anniversary, the retired Air Force major joins Tango Alpha Lima to tell the full story: the plan she and her flight lead worked out in a briefing room, the peace she says she felt with it, and the passengers fought the terrorists and made the mission unnecessary. Plus, the rest of her story beyond the day of the terrorist attack: being told at Purdue University that "girls can't be fighter pilots," two combat deployments, night "Scud hunter" missions over Iraq, and a retirement advocating for the next generation of aviators with the Mitchell Institute.

Also in this episode: Constitution Day, the history of women in aviation, and the Mitchell Institute's new report on the space frontier.


SHOW LINKS

Learn more about how to celebrate Constitution Day

Treat lower back pain with restorative neurostimulation. Visit Reactiv8

Learn more about Heather "Lucky" Penney

Enter to win a Humvee with The American Legion Drive for Freedom Sweepstakes

Learn about the Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies mission

Visit The American Legion Grassroots Action Center and learn about our legislative priorities



Hosted by three veterans of the Global War on Terrorism, the Tango Alpha Lima Podcast from The American Legion is a weekly conversation built on shared experience. Each episode sits down with fellow veterans and influential voices from the military community for discussions that are as substantive as they are engaging. Listeners will hear candid stories about the transition to civilian life, moments of valor, and the ongoing journey toward mental wellness, including frank talk about overcoming PTSD and navigating VA benefits. But this podcast is more than just interviews; it’s a reflection of military camaraderie. The hosts bring a familiar, often humorous dynamic to the table, blending playful joking and vibrant discussion with their takes on current events, interesting trends, and the quirky stories that resonate with those who have served. It’s a mix of heartfelt personal narratives, practical advice, and timely commentary, all delivered with the authenticity only insiders can provide. Tune in for a connection that feels like pulling up a chair with old friends who aren’t afraid to tackle the tough topics or share a laugh about the lighter side of life in and after the uniform.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

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