I hired on with Delta in September 1969.

In the Spring of 1970 I was assigned to DFW and one of the first Co-pilots I flew with was Sam.  His last name intriged me and my last name intriged him.  He wanted to know all about Eliot Ness and my connection with him.  I wanted to know where his last name came from.  We enjoyed many laughs together.

Later I flew as a Flight Engineer and First Officer on the L-1011 with Sam.  I always looked forward to my trips with Sam as I knew he was a person who not only enjoyed flying, but he honored people and was caring of not only the crew but the passengers.

Sam was three years older than I, but was six years senior to me and was an older brother mentor to me.  Our many conversations on layovers still are in my heart.

I also know he loved the Lord, as many of our conversations were about the Kingdom of God and our relationship with the Lord.  I look forward to being with him again.

And to all of his family, I know how much you loved him and how much he loved you.  As Christians you will have a great reunion coming one day.  Look up, your salvation draws near.

Blessings to all of you.

Buff Ness, Captain, Retired (1997)